Hello, I just bought a 2000 f150 4x4 Off road supercab. When I was driving home and since the purchase I have noticed a considerable amount of slop in the drivetrain. It happens when I come off of acceleration and when I come out of engine braking back to acceleration. Its not so much as a clunk but more of a feel of something worn. Very annoying in semi stop and go traffic.

It almost feels like the transmission but the tranny shifts rather smooth thru the gears , like I said more when I let off the gas and get back on it. I replaced my rear brake pads today and I noticed something unusual. In park I could turn the rear wheel a good 4/5 inches to the left or right without any movement in the driveshaft whatsoever. It doesn't look right to my eye.

Can some one tell me how much is too much and if this could be a worn rear end?
Thank you very much any
info is greatly appreciated!
1stfordowned

 

If you can turn your rear wheel horizontally, then you have serious issues. I wouldn't be driving it. Most likely a rear wheel bearing has gone out and needs replaced. Or your lug nuts need tightened up.

 

Hi , Not horizontally.When I had the rear wheel off the ground on the jack, I could turn the wheel ie: tire to the left or to the right 4 or 5 inches while watching the driveshaft without the driveshaft turning. Truck was in Park but that still seems like a lot of play.
Thanks for your response.
1stfordowned

 

Check the rear U-joint.

 

Yep my recommendation too.

 

Thanks, I'll check it out guys!
1stfordowned

 

Hello all:
My mechanic is putting a rear U joint in. The truck was starting to shake
under load, accelaration. So I will post tomorrow with results.
1stfordowned

 

being that you have the off road package on your truck, you probably have a lower gear like a 4:10 already... you said your rear wheel moved 4/5th's of a turn, are you saying it almost turned a full revolution?

are you hearing a whining sound when your driving?

 

Thanks for your reply High Profile.

My Mech told me the rear u joint was shot. I got the truck back after he repaired and It's much smoother and feels real good.
Thanks for everyones help!
1stfordowned