Hard vibration in rear end during acceleration.

[Twood]

I have a 98 Explorer Eddie Bauer 5.0 Awd. When Driving at a steady speed and then accelerating, or when accelerating to go up a hill or a highway on-ramp, a hard short burst of vibration comes from the rear end. The best way I can describe it is like going over rumble strips very quickly. Any ideas as to what this could be?

 

[imp]

I have a 98 Explorer Eddie Bauer 5.0 Awd. When Driving at a steady speed and then accelerating, or when accelerating to go up a hill or a highway on-ramp, a hard short burst of vibration comes from the rear end. The best way I can describe it is like going over rumble strips very quickly. Any ideas as to what this could be?

Check U-joints first. Rear axle bearings and gears usually do not produce a rumble effect. However, a rear WHEEL bearing can sometimes.

 

[C420sailor]

Only thing I’ve ever felt in an Explorer like that was torque converter shudder. It’s common in those 4R70W trans. When was the last time you changed fluid?