Is it the driveshaft CV or the TC making that noise?

[rhinodep]

Hi-

I've read dozens of previous threads that I think have helped me narrow down a problem I'm having. I get a loud clicking noise from under my '97 Explorer AWD whenever I take off from a stop. The threads I've read lead me to believe it's the front driveshaft CV joint where it meets the transfer case. I think this because there is a lot of play at the TC end when I shake the driveshaft. I understand I'm looking at replacing the entire shaft. My question is, how do I know if the TC is operating properly, and was not the cause of the CV going bad? Is there an operational test I can perform on the TC while the shaft is off? Sorry if this is a dumb question, I'm kind of in that grey area when it comes to repairs. Experienced enough to follow directions but not enough to make my own way. Thanks

 

[storlied]

The front shaft is just a horrible design, notice how they have the boot open to any rocks flying under there... they'll just shred the boot and destroy the cv joint... I wouldn't worry too much about the tcase... these front shafts go out all the time. There's not really too much you can do as far as testing the tcase.. as it's a sealed unit that operates on it's own.

Looks like you've discovered the problem though, swap that shaft out. Mine got to the point beyond noises.. there was no connection anymore.. I was strictly 2wd.... in a horrible position in the middle of winter when it got all icey out... gah..

The most you can do really is see if there's any abnormal in-out and side to side (bearing) play in the output of the tcase. My way of testing to see if the front is even doing anything is to just let it do it's job.. get on some ice, snow, gravel.. anything slippery (but will give Easily... I personally wouldn't try anything on wet pavement..) and see if the front spins up consistantly.

 

[rhinodep]

Thanks, Storlied! You must be right about the number of failures of these driveshafts, I'm having trouble finding one at a junk yard in West Michigan. Really glad I found this forum, though! I bought my X 5 years ago and plan on passing it down to my daughter when she's old enough to drive. The information I've learned here in the last few days is better than a repair manual!

 

[storlied]

You're welcome. this forum is definitely helpful. We have a member here with the part you need for a damn good price... his name is ericautopart .. great guy... genuine New ford parts.