How much play in rear hubs?

[BadBrad]

I have been trying to track down a clunking noise under my '98 5.0 Explorer. The noise happens when going over sharp bumps like expansion joints or potholes. I have replaced the ball joints, inner tie rod ends, and the front swaybar endlinks, bushings, and mounting brackets. The dealer said that I needed new rear swaybar endlinks, but they look good to me and don't rattle when I shake them or hit them with a rubber mallet. I tightened everything under the truck that I could get a wrench on.

I noticed recently that if I jack up the rear end so the wheels are off the ground, I can move the rear hubs in and out about 1/4 inch on both the right and left sides. Is this much side play normal on a solid rear axle? If not, what is wrong and how do I adjust/fix it?

Any other ideas as to what this clunking noise could be?

Brad B.

 

[Rick]

Yes, there is some end play in the rear axle shafts. I don't think it's a 1/4" though. You can definately detect it by, pushing/pulling on the axle shafts though.

Have you checked the heat shields on your exhaust? They are prone to coming loose and making noise. Usually not a clunk though.