2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Rear Clunk? Help

[RobNJ]

Hey guys, I got a 94 2500 4X4 12V Auto, just a tick under 100k. Stock Dana 70 rear Limited Slip 3. 54 gears. Need some help diagnosing a problem. I get a popping sound or clunking sound from my rear from time to time. It almost feels as if the rear end is shifting like 1 or 2 inches from side to side. Now this only happens when say I'm in traffic and basically idling along and have to merge into the next lane to the LEFT. Clunk... . shift..... Or when I am turning the steering wheel to the RIGHT while backing up... ... . Never happens at speed, never happens when merging to the right, never happens when turning the steering wheel to the left while backing up. AND never does it with sharp steering movements always very slight turns. AND it doesn't do it all the time.



This is driving me crazy got brand new rancho shocks, checked them thier tight. Checked leaf spring U bolts... thier tight, Checked wheels... . tight.



Is this driveshaft play? Ring and Pinion Play? Wheel Bearings? Limited Slip going south? Anybody experience this same problem? This cant be normal right? Your opinions and knowledge would be greatly appreciated. Just renewed my Script awesome site and mag. Thanks guys

 

[Cummins360]

Sounds like a u-joint about ready to fall off. Did u check the u joints wile u were under there??? That and the wheel bearings but I doubt that they would get this worn out on a heavy duty rear end like a dana 70.

 

[RobNJ]

Cummins, While I was under there I pulled on the rear driveshaft... . no play in it, all the e clips were on the U joint bearings and everything seemed ok. I will check it out more thoroughly and let ya know. Thanks man

 

[TORQUE THIS]

If you have a "limited slip" rear, that's what you are feeling... Mine has done it since day 1...

 

[GCULP]

If you have a "limited slip" rear, that's what you are feeling... Mine has done it since day 1...

yup, my 2000 dakota R/T did the same thing backing out of the driveway and on some turns, have you changed the rearend fluid and added the special $8 a bottle juice the dealer sells lately? on a limited slip rearend I'd add this to your once a year investments.

 

[RobNJ]

Now that I think of it No i haven't done a diff service in a while. Ohh well gives me an excuse to get a MH cover that i'm gonna order right now :-laf . Sometimes it's the most simple thing you over look. You guys have any preference in the fluid you use. I was gonna try Amsoil Severe Gear. Thanks a bunch fellas.