CLUNK after backing - Diesel Forum

RSR FARM · 02-08-2007, 05:16 PM

My truck has been near perfect so far (fingers crossed) but there is a noise--a clunk--that I can't figure out. The 'clunk' only happens after I back up and then pull out to the left. The 'clunk' happens just as I begin driving forward, wheels turned to the left. The most usual scenario is that I pull straight into a parking space (in front of a store for example). When I return to the truck (time or distance driven does not seem to matter), back out of the space, and proceed forward to the left the 'clunk' is almost immediate. It happens once and does not again occour until I repeat the sequence. I do not notice the clunk when executing a 'three point turn' for example, or other similar maneuver. I am not positive but I think the noise only happens when on pavement.

4X4 is not engaged and both the hubs are free. The 4X4 system works just fine and the tranny has given me no problems.

Any ideas?

Thanks.

Ron

rock_doctor · 02-08-2007, 05:32 PM

Very common. I have the same thing on my 05 Excursion. Most think it is the limited slip, slipping. I am not sure. It feels more to me like a brake sticking and then letting go... Just one of those great mysteries...

mark

RSR FARM · 02-08-2007, 05:42 PM

I thought about the limited slip but this noise 'seems' to be coming from the front of the truck--but not positive about that.

Ron

Engine13 · 02-08-2007, 05:50 PM

I would reccomend that you check your ball joints. They are notorious for making a clunk sound upon braking, turning, and the like. You might even notice the clunk comes and goes as the weather changes i.e. warmer versus colder. Also, where the clunk is coming from can be deceptive. When my right front ball joints wore out, I could swear the noise was coming from the left front.

Another area to check is your sway bar bushings and end link bushings. Some have experienced clunk noises from these.

Hope this helps,
John

rock_doctor · 02-08-2007, 06:52 PM

[ QUOTE ]
I thought about the limited slip but this noise 'seems' to be coming from the front of the truck--but not positive about that.

Ron

[/ QUOTE ]

It could be. The ball joints have been known to go quickly on the 4x4's. In fact, ford release a paper that said replacement joints should have a grease fitting.

mark

joelykool · 02-08-2007, 06:59 PM

My dad's 03 excursion does a clunking noise also while turning right after the first start-up of the day and in first gear going about 5mph. It only does it once and goes away for the rest of the day. It feels and sounds as if it's coming directly beneath the drivers seat.

UNBROKEN · 02-08-2007, 07:02 PM

Both of my 2wd's do it...one is dropped on 22's..one is stone stock.
Since they both do it I gave up on guessing what is wrong and just figured it's something they all do. LOL

Rstrnt · 02-08-2007, 07:47 PM

Could the clunking noise possibly be your front bumper, hitting the rear bumper of the car you were parked next to? :-)

f350bart · 02-08-2007, 08:13 PM

yea thats what i was thinking did you look before you backed up? lol just kidding

PerryB · 02-08-2007, 08:46 PM

My bet is the slip-yoke on the rear driveshaft.

RSR FARM · 02-09-2007, 10:43 AM

Thanks for the replies. Now I have a few more things to consider.

Ron

Destinsb · 02-09-2007, 04:02 PM

My '04 has done it since it was new. I cant figure it out and neither can my dealer. My brother's '04 does it too. Go figure!

Lono · 02-10-2007, 03:13 AM

A week after I bought my last truck, I had a VERY large clunk when backing up. Turned out to be a street lamp, and I whacked it good. thank god I had my receiver hitch on, it only scratched the chrome... instead of totaling the bumper.

I know it's a bit off topic, but when I saw your posting it was my first thought.

ha ha!

mowhawky · 02-10-2007, 01:26 PM

There is a TSB on it. My truck does the same thing. I expect it every morning when I back out of my driveway. When I pull away I am very easy on the fuel until I hear the slight clunk. It only take a second or two to get it.