"Thump" when shifting gears

[drstein]

Hi!

I hope this is the right forum for this, so here goes..

I have a stock 1994 XLT, with about 120k miles on it. I bought it used. With increasing frequency, I hear a "Thump" coming from what sounds like the rear end when going from Park -> Reverse, or from Forward -> Reverse (and vice versa). This just started very recently.

I've been told that it could be the U-Joints starting to go.

How difficult are these to replace? If I was to take it to a shop, how much might I get stuck paying? How long might I have left before something serious malfunctions?

I'm flat broke for another 2 weeks (new job) and am going on a overnight camping trip Sunday, and I might need to use 4WD. Any potential issues with using 4WD right now?

Thanks, all!

 

[Mbrooks420]

Does it ever clunk when slowing to a stop? It may be the slip yoke on the driveshaft is dry. There is a metal retaining clamp that hold the boot on. You have to cut this and pack it with grease, and install a new clamp. If it is the u joints you should be able to replace them your self. It is an easy, quick job. They are also cheap. As far as 4x4, if it's in the rear shaft, it won't make any difference. If a u joint lets go your shaft will come apart. Then you will have to limp wherever you are going in 4x4, with front wheel drive only. I wouldn't lose any sleep over it.

 

[Eneurb]

It sounds like a u-joint... depending on how inclined you are, they are not difficult to do. They also should not be that expensive to have replaced. As for driving it, you should be okay for a few weeks... just take it easy.

 

[drstein]

Cool, thanks for the advice. It doesn't do it when slowing/stopping, just when going from forward <-> reverse. I'm going to pick up a Chilton's guide for the Ex pretty soon and look into the u-joints.