clank when shifting to reverse

[raaizin]

Sometimes when I shift into reverse I hear a noise from the driveline. It doesnt do it very often. What could it be, and what is the corrective action.

Ray

 

[BuffaloXplorer]

To Clunk or Not to Clunk.....

I've got a similar problem with my 96 X. Sometimes it'll "clunk" when engaging and sometimes it shifts smoothly.

I had never been one to wait for the full stop before shifting into reverse (from a forward gear) or out of reverse into a drive gear, but after i had the tranny rebuilt in April i've made sure to come to a complete stop as a precaution. I've noticed that neither waiting for a complete stop nor rolling forward (or neutral) has made a difference as to how the shift into reverse feels/sounds.

Prior to the rebuild, i was told that i need 2 (out of 3) new u-joints in the rear (split) driveshaft. I would assume (seems probable) that loose u-joints could be the culprit, but i have yet to address my issue. I'm guessing that the reason for the clunk/no-clunk depends on where the d/s comes to a complete rotational stop before the shift into reverse.

So, i guess after all this, i'm in the same boat as you.

 

[Glacier991]

Definitely suggestive of U joint issues.

 

[axionplaya]

Rather common clunk...? I too get a "clunk" occasionally with my truck. I wonder if a lot of other Explorer owners get that also...

Roy
_________________
1996 Ford Explorer XLT
4WD
4.0L SOHC V6
K&N Filter
Flowmaster

 

[V8Exploder]

I get a nice clunk when its cold when shifting into reverse, but other than that, I dont really hear much.

 

[Tony H]

As Glacier991 stated. This is a typical bad 'U' joint type of noise.

With Foot on the Brake, Put the car in Drive, wait a second for it to engage then put it in reverse if you get that clunk there is a good chance it's 'U' joints.

It's typical with any car not X specific.