'97 Ford Explorer V8 Front Diff Popping

[flynniep]

Okay, so I posted a thread before this asking about a creaking sound coming from front left wheel well, now the creaking sound has stopped, but a popping noise has started. This popping only occurs when I accelerate too quickly (over 5 mph) from a complete stop.
I am attaching a YouTube video of exactly what the popping sounds like, this is not my video, but this is the exact sound it's making: Popping Sound
On the same day the previous creaking sound began, I had all 4 tires replaced, after I got it back from the shop it began creaking. I brought it back the next day for them to look at it, they didn't find anything wrong and said it was safe to drive. I drove it on the highway 100 miles back to where I live, when I stopped in the town I live in, the popping sound started.
Is it possible the shop that replaced my tires could have damaged my front diff?

 

[Mbrooks420]

Pull the front driveshaft, and drive it around and see if it still does it. Beware with no shaft it will creep very very slowly in park if not flat.

 

[flynniep]

Pull the front driveshaft, and drive it around and see if it still does it. Beware with no shaft it will creep very very slowly in park if not flat.

How long can I drive it without a drive shaft?

 

[Mbrooks420]

As long as you want. Just beware you need to block the wheels, or have a functioning ebrake.

 

[RoyKelly2]

You may want to look at this thread 97 AWD, Bang/Clunk under acceleration or gear shift from front end. HELP!

My fix was to replace then rebuild the transfer case - My chain was slipping on a gear

 

[Turdle]

Try a prybar between frame and torqur brackt f front diff. The toque bracket bushing should prevent most movement. If this is loose at all you'll get this

Solved - Front Differential Thumps and Jumps= Bad things happen in 4wd

I posted here because the front diff is a stock component, however, the transfer case differentials sub forum might be a better place for this discussion. Included is a video showing what has to be excessive front diff movement. Why? Since I first noticed the issue I have tried a different...

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