Rear-end "pop" - Any ideas?
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Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 16
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From: Mineral Bluff, GA
Rear-end "pop" - Any ideas?
My 2000 model 4x4 F-150 supercab makes a distinct "pop" or loud "click" noise from the rear-end of the vehicle. Although it does not make this noise consistently, the noise seems to be associated with turning, particularly when turning uphill. I will hear the noise when doing this in either forward or reverse gears. Occasionally, I wil hear a similar noise (it seems quieter, though) when the body tilts slightly as I enter or exit the truck. I have not had much success specifically isolating the source of the noise, but I'm certain that it comes from the area around the axle of the vehicle. Often, I can repeat driving maneuvers that with mixed success at causing the noise; sometimes it will repeat the noise, and sometimes it won't under the same driving conditions.
I have had the vehicle back to the dealer two times, and both times I was unsuccessful at recreating this noise. The first time, a technician rode with me and stated that the noise is coming from the axle, particularly where the wheel and axle come together, and that it was normal (even though he didn't hear it). On the second trip to the dealer, the service manager stated that it was a sign that the "clutches" in the limited-slip differential needed to be replaced.
A mechanic friend who services the truck for routine oil changes (who has not heard the noise, either) suggested that the noise is coming from a bed support or suspension component. An inspection of these items, though, did not reveal any loose or improperly functioning components. The drive shaft of the vehicle feels secure, too.
I am concerned about this noise since I only have about 2,000 miles remaining on my factory warranty, and I have yet to identify the source of the noise. I had a 1999 model 4x4 F-150 regular cab prior to this vehicle (without limited slip axle), and I never heard anything similar to this noise from that vehicle.
Any ideas or strategies to isolate this noise are greatly appreciated!
Sincerely,
Mike
ke4kfs
I have had the vehicle back to the dealer two times, and both times I was unsuccessful at recreating this noise. The first time, a technician rode with me and stated that the noise is coming from the axle, particularly where the wheel and axle come together, and that it was normal (even though he didn't hear it). On the second trip to the dealer, the service manager stated that it was a sign that the "clutches" in the limited-slip differential needed to be replaced.
A mechanic friend who services the truck for routine oil changes (who has not heard the noise, either) suggested that the noise is coming from a bed support or suspension component. An inspection of these items, though, did not reveal any loose or improperly functioning components. The drive shaft of the vehicle feels secure, too.
I am concerned about this noise since I only have about 2,000 miles remaining on my factory warranty, and I have yet to identify the source of the noise. I had a 1999 model 4x4 F-150 regular cab prior to this vehicle (without limited slip axle), and I never heard anything similar to this noise from that vehicle.
Any ideas or strategies to isolate this noise are greatly appreciated!
Sincerely,
Mike
ke4kfs
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 742
Likes: 1
From: Kingsport, TN
Check those leaf springs!!!
Get out and check your leaf spring assembly ASAP! I know they had a problem with earlier truck (i.e. the 1997-98 years) and the leaf spring assembly cracking under load. Get under and inspect your springs and shackles for cracks as soon as you can!
On a lighter note, you may want to grease all fittings that you can to see if you can't eliminate that noise that way.
Hope that helped ya!
-Flea
On a lighter note, you may want to grease all fittings that you can to see if you can't eliminate that noise that way.
Hope that helped ya!
-Flea
