Quality is job 1!

[apache]

It seems as if my 98 Sport SOHC will always be blessed with at least one problem at any given time. This time, I have a problem that I've heard about in these forums but is extremely difficult to diagnose. Almost everytime the vehicle comes to a complete stop, there is a clunking sound in the rear end. I took it to Ford and they said that they have inspected numerous Explorers with the exact same symptoms and there is no cure. They stated that it is simply the rear suspension "unbinding." My suspension both front and new is completely new and has Bilstein shocks. My Explorer was making the clunk before the Bilstein's however. Also, I have new brakes, tires and an alignment. I have 65K and love the truck but man, that noise sounds as if the truck is going to fall apart! Any suggestions?

 

[RTStork]

I'm sure they checked theses but i'd recheck the u-joints, and the trans and motor mounts. Could be something going on in the rear end too.

 

[Stephen S]

Welcome to the site!! You'll find just about anything you want to know about your truck right here.

I seem to remember reading about problems like that around here before. Some think that it might be caused by the driveshaft slip yoke needing to be lubricated. Lemme find some of the threads....

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Hope this helps!

 

[Robert]

Yup, I'll agree with lubricating the driveshaft slip yoke. At 65K miles, if you have never had it done it is way past due. When it binds up it will cause the symptoms you described. The clunk shows up on my '97 about every 30K miles until I re-lube the slip-yoke.

 

[01EB5.0]

You gotta lube the slip-yoke? haha I got like 110K on mine and haven;t touched it...maybe it's time

 

[D]

if it's the suspension unloading some traction bars would probably fix that.

 

[apache]

Thanks for the input guys, I'll try lubing the yoke this weekend when I get some time. Anything special I need to know prior to attempting this service besides the snap rings and stubborn bolts? Any special grease or will axle grease do? Thanks again.