Hey guys got a new problem with my truck.
Background: 2001 f150 4.6 2wd 178k.

Issue: when I put my truck in reverse it'll click once, and as I roll back it'll click a couple more times. Also when I turn at slow speeds it clicks. Sounds like it's coming from under the bed. It doesn't do it when I'm going normal speeds, sometimes when I accelerate from a complete stop but it's rare. My friend has knowledge on cars and he said it may be my differential. Just thought I'd get another opinion.

Thanks guys

 

I'd check the U-joints first. Park the truck on level ground so it won't roll and away from traffic and put the transmission in neutral to take the tension off the driveshaft. Crawl under the truck and shake and twist each U- joint checking for looseness, it's easy once you know what to look for.

 

Ok, this morning it did it when I put my truck in drive and reverse. Could this may be a tranny issue? I'm all for replacing the U joints but if I have to start messing with the transmission majorly I'll be saying goodbye to the truck.

 

You don't need to replace the U-joints on a guess. Just check the U-joints, and if you find a bad one replace it then.

I would think your noise is elsewhere in the drivetrain, not in the transmission.

 

I'm going to check this afternoon when I get out of class, if it is a u joint issue I've already looked them up on autozone for about $25 but there's 4 different ones listed. Are they all the same or do certain ones go in certain spots? I'd assume they are interchangeable since it is a universal (u) joint.

 

They are not interchangeable. They have to be specific to the vehicle application. Some vehicles use the same u-joint front back and center( if your vehicle has 3 U-joints). Some vehicles use different ones for the 2 or 3 different locations. If you find you do need a U-joint take the info and location to the parts place.

If you go to replace a U-joint you will probably need a vise as well as some hand tools.

 

Universal is named for its 2 axis movement

Just like a CV axle is named for its 3axis movement