2006 Explorer front end sound like a jackhammer, what could it be?

[shades9323]

I have a jackhammer(best way to describe it) sound coming from my front end. I happens turning left, turning right, and going straight. It is most noticeable when my foot is on the gas. I can also hear it during low speed breaking. The sound is very faint when coasting. I can hear it during slow speeds and gets progressively louder, the faster I go. Happens in both auto 4wd and high 4wd. Any ideas or additional questions?

06 V6 XLT 4wd, 86000 miles.

Thanks,

Scott

 

[Scorpion8]

Sounds like a front transaxle CV joint going bad.

 

[Kiliona]

first things first, get under there with a GOOD light and do a visual inspection. chances are you'll be able to see a broken suspension piece, a CV that grenaded, or something along those lines. look everywhere. If you can't see anything, maybe it's your differential. Grab a mechanics stethoscope if you can't visually see the problem.

 

[Scorpion8]

^ ... and pull and yank on heavy metallic stuff like the tie rods, axle, CV boot, etc. Anything that makes that much noise should be loose anough to rattle about. Or use a rubber mallet and whack on pieces until you find one that is suspiciously loose.

 

[Tech By Trade]

Check that front drive shaft ujoint.