95 XLT clunking

[danimal]

Looking for advice:

I get some mild clunking when i go from park to rev. or drive.

This seems to go away after the bronc is warmed up.

Im pretty sure that this indicates some U-joint trouble

(transmission is tip-top).

this has been happening (and not worsening) for a long time.

Questions:

1. How can i be sure of the problem? (what should be checked?)

2. What's the risk of waiting to see if it's gonna get worse..?

3. Could it be just a **** thing?

4. How many connections (joints) are there on the rear drive train.

5. How big a job to service the entire rear drive train.? (any special tools)?

6. Anyone have any pictures or details of performing this service..?

Thanks to all...

Danimal

 

[Seabronc]

I wouldn't worry too much about an occational clunk, you could be hearing the park lock pin pulling out, especially if you are on a grade. If you want to check your differential for wear, put your parking brake on, put it in neutral and crawl under the truck and see how much the driveshaft moves when you try to turn it by hand. A slight movement back and forth is OK. There are two joints in the rear drive train, One U-joint and a double joint called a "Double Cardan Joint". The U-joints are sealed with no grease fitting, however there is a grease fitting on the slip yoke section and one in the middle of the Cardan joint. There is a plug in the differential just above the axle line. If you remove the plug and stick the tip of your finger in, you should feel the Oil, it is 90 weight and sort of smelly. You could also check the traansfercase oil level the same way, it takes standard transmission fluid. In front there are grease fittings on the steering linkage and the ball joints.

I hope that this covers your questions.

good luck,

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