rear end play

[justinb212]

I have a 97 explorer AWD and i've noticed play on the right side of the rear. When I was driving and turning the wheel to the right after I turned to the left,it clunks every time. I jacked it up and was able to move the wheel in and out. I don't have no vibration or anything, just the clunk when i turn right. Is it something to worry about or no.

 

[IZwack]

In/out movement is normal as the axle shafts are held in by "C"-clips in the differential. This movement is about 1/4" from what I recall.

 

[justinb212]

yes put when i turn the wheel to the left and then back to the right it clunks everytime. the left side i can't move it in and out like i can with the right side. could the c clip be worn out or is there spacers in there that are worn out. am i over exaggerating. I had a ford truck loose the whole rim,axle,brakes,drum,everything before when i was driving. just wha to make sure that it's not going to happend again expecially if my kids are in my truck with me

 

[IZwack]

yes put when i turn the wheel to the left and then back to the right it clunks everytime. the left side i can't move it in and out like i can with the right side. could the c clip be worn out or is there spacers in there that are worn out. am i over exaggerating. I had a ford truck loose the whole rim,axle,brakes,drum,everything before when i was driving. just wha to make sure that it's not going to happend again expecially if my kids are in my truck with me

The other part that holds the axle shaft in is of course the wheel bearing - which does wear out over time but usually they last for a quite a while. I would look elsewhere before tearing into the differential / axle housing. Maybe find a small hill and have somebody else walk behind the vehicle as you drive horizontally across the hill, both to the left and to the right.