When I put my foot into it a little at low speeds it seems to "clunk" before its gets going. There is about 1/4" of play in the driveshaft at the diff but I read that its normal. Also seems to have a slight shake when going 70mph and taking your foot off the petal and let it slow down. I think Its a U joint but just want a second opinion. It was doing something similar to this a year ago and the shop replaced the rear U joint near the diff, it fixed the problem for a couple months and now its doing it again but the shake isn't as bad. Could it be the U joint by the tranny? Thanks

Its an 01 Screw 4by4 with 170,000 miles on the odo.

 

I haven't looked at mine. But, is there a carrier bearing in the middle on these

 

There is one carrier bearing at each end of the carrier.

 

I believe the question referred to the center support bearing on a two piece driveshaft, not the differential.

 

I would take a close look at the u joints.. With 170.000 on it is about that time... If you do one you might as well do both while you have the shaff out...Lew

 

yes i was referring to middle, not each end! lol

i do know if you put in ujoints wrong, they will go out quick!

 

This post was exactly what i was looking for when i got on here today. noticed a similar sound last night on my truck. Under moderate acceleration i hear a clunking followed by a squeal/screech between 5 and 35 mph. with the window down, sounds like its the back driver side wheel. after getting under the truck, noticed the middle joint was loose in the sleeve. i'm assuming thats not good. i'm no mechanic but my first thoughts were the rearend, wheel bearing or u-joint. any suggestions?