Strange noise under vehicle

[Ronjm]

Hi Guys
I was test driving my 1996 Explorer the other day & while driving I turned a corner & when I gave it some gas there was a like a clanging noise came from underneath directly below drivers door ( I am in Australia ) only happened once but it happens once every time I take it out. The only things near where the noise is coming from is the CATS. It sounds like something is hitting something.

 

[boominXplorer]

V6 or V8? Did it happen while accelerating? Is it 4x4 or all wheel drive?

 

[Ronjm]

V6 & yes while accelerating & it's 4x4

 

[boominXplorer]

Sure it was a 96 and not a 97? Reason I ask is it sounds like a CV front driveshaft issue BUT the CV style didn't start till 97. It's possible that someone swapped the newer case and shaft in the truck also. The cat converters are on the passenger side of the transmission so I don't think it's the issue.

 

[Ronjm]

Funny you should say that it's got a SOHC motor so everyone tells me it's a 97 but on my papers for the vehicle it says 96. It was built 10/96. And I am in Australia so drivers side is on the right.

 

[boominXplorer]

Ahhhh ok. It should be a 97 with that build date, you can check the VIN to verify. I'm leaning toward a broken chunk of cat in the exhaust or front driveshaft making noise. If the front driveshaft has the CV style hook up at the tcase that would be my first look.

You can also look on the emissions tag under the hood for the year also.

 

[Ronjm]

Thanks I'll check it out.

 

[J_C]

Maybe just an exhaust heat shield with broken welds? That happened to mine a few years ago, ended up just wrapping 12 ga solid copper wire (insulation stripped off of course) around it as a temporary fix and now years later, it's still holding. A big hose clamp or steel wire strap should work too.

 

[koda2000]

In addition to the other things suggested, check your transmission mount. If it's broken (or oil soaked) it might let the transmission move from side-to-side while cornering allowing the driveshaft/u-joints to hit in the trans tunnel.

 

[Ronjm]

Thanks will do I will let you know.

 

[410Fortune]

These guys have you covered! Check that front driveshaft and exhaust
Maybe have a look see at your front end parts too since you said it happens while turning, that's usually a CV axle, tie rod end or ball joint that can make a popping sound