U-Joints?

[Mbrooks420]

My 1996 4x4 has started to make a thumping sound. It is in tune with the drivetrain, not the engine speed. It is worse if I go at the lowest rpm for a gear, like if I putz it up a long hill. It is a thump thump thump sound you san feel and hear. To me it sounds like its from the front.
My first guess is the u-joints. I grabbed and shook the
axle shafts and both of them have side play. it seems to me the Drivers out and passanger Inner are the worst. The axle shafts shouldn;t have ANY sideplay right? My warranty is near up so if thats the case I'll get 2 new axle shafts. Its already going in for a steering rack. Gotta love thoe warranties
Oh, and will anything make short order of an lternator??

 

[Doug]

Side to side movement generally isnt good. I highly doubt the dealer will replace the U-joints under warranty Im sure theyre considered "routine maintenance." As far as the alternator (which i assume youre talking about) just blast through some deep mud a couple of times itll take care of the alternator for you.

 

[Mbrooks420]

My u joints are definetly covered. I have an extened warranty that is nearly bumper to bumper. Also I can take it to ANY mechanic I want. Actually anyone from the site who wants to do some warranty work on my truck feel free to speak up. Only downside is that you have to wait for the check, which is generally book labor.

 

[Doug]

I dunno ive never heard of a dealer replacing something that does wear out after time and does need periodic replacement unless it wears out prematurely. but you could be right.

 

[Mbrooks420]

It ISN"T a dealer and clearly states in the warranty papers they are covered. It covers almost evertyhing in the driveline but the hubs and bearings.