Help ... I have a Chirp

[schaaed1]

Hi all -

I have an '00 4dr, with the 4.0 X code engine with 105k.

I have developed a low speed intermittent high pitched chirp/squeek that is being caused by something rotational (not suspension related). This is high pitched ... not like the low pitched groan/growl usually associated with a hub going.

I hear this more at lower speeds, on acceleration, and under load (going up hill). When going down hill (light load) I do not hear this. Let off throttle and coast ... no chirp.

My thought is universal joints?? Anyone think I am on the correct path?

It looks like I have two on rear shaft and one on the front shaft. Anyone have any tips, tricks, in dropping these shafts?? What size are those stupid star bolts that look like they need to be removed.

Thanks for any help & suggestions,
Ed

 

[corkey]

i would say it is Ujoints on the back driveshaft, , it is easy to remove, them funky bolts are 12 mm,have to use a box end wrech 12 point,

 

[schaaed1]

Probably right on the rear shaft and not the front. Was just outside and thinking ... the sound is definately under load only, and since the front was not engaged ... should rule out the front.

One other point I forgot to mention in the first post ... there is no chirping when in reverse.

There must be a special socket for those funky bolt heads??

 

[99SportX]

I don't know about a special socket. A typical 12 point 12mm socket will do just fine.

 

[schaaed1]

Well the 12 point socket did the job. Had a hard time freeing the flanges on each end after they were unbolted. Everything else went fine. Only had to get the really BFH out once.

I did have one of the rear caps with no bearings left inside ... just powdered metal in thick black tar. Kind of surprising I was not hearing it clunk.

Will test out in the am ... to see if the bird chirp is gone.