I drive a 97 F150 4X4. Anytime you drive there is a popping from somewhere in the back of the truck. It doesnt do it when you bounce on the bumper. Only when driving. It seems to not be related to acceleration or slowing down. Mostly turns when the weight shifts to the side. Ive changed shocks and tightened everything under there and no luck. Anybody have the same issue??

 

If you have a rear sway bar check the links. Put hands on, usually the rubber separates from the steel alowing movement. They will look like they are ok.

 

I'd say check the shackles/rear leaf spring bushings too.

 

Check The Rear Diff, It Might Be The Crown And Pinion ????????

 

Well the popping sound turned out to be the pinion sticking on the seal. Last night the seal blew out. All fixed up now and no more popping. There were no signs of leaking before last night when it let go so i would suggest that if there is a poppins sound in your rearend somwhere (keep it clean!!) check the pinion and seal. A 30.00 fix is alot cheaper than a new rearend.

 

Q. Was the popping fairly consistent?
For some time, I have occaissionally had a pop/clunk sound during low speed, sharp turns that occur in circumstances like you described.
For a few weeks, I've heard another sound that occurs when going straight over certain bumps in the road. I would describe it as a higher pitched, metallic clank/rattle. Both sounds seem to come from the right rear. I can create what seems to be the sound by hitting the shock upper shield/cover so that it contacts the shock body.
Q. What exactly happened when the seal went out and how many miles are on your truck?