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Bad U joint somewhere?

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Old 06-23-2017, 12:26 AM
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Default Bad U joint somewhere?

I have a 1994 Ford F-150 4x4 it has a solid front axle. Lately I've noticed that from 30-45 MPH there's harsh vibrating. At 50 it calms down. When engaging into reverse, there is a clunk before it catches and it's usually rough. Could this be a sign of a bad u joint causing slack somewhere? If so which one is best to suspect? There's 2 on the rear driveshaft, but I don't think the front ones beyond the rear shaft would be an issue because none of them move unless 4x4 is engaged. Any input? Does this even sound like a U joint problem? One of the U joints on the rear shaft is factory. So it's 22 years old. Lol opinions please!
Old 06-23-2017, 12:54 AM
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It could be... Did the shift to reverse clunk just start? If so, crawl under it and see if the u-joints have any play. If not, I think you may have a tire out of balance.

Some vehicles just clunk when shifting to reverse. My 1977 has done it since new.
Old 06-23-2017, 01:35 AM
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It's done it ever since I've had it. Has new transmission fluid in it. Idk the vibration isn't constant it's only at a certain speed
Old 06-23-2017, 01:36 AM
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I am betting on a tire balance issue
Old 06-23-2017, 01:48 AM
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I would check the U-joints first thing. Park the truck on level ground so it can't roll and put the transmission in neutral to take the tension off the u-joints. Twist on the main part of the driveshaft while you watch and grab the part on the other end of the U-joint. Also rock the shaft up and down and sideways and feel for play. This method works real well once you get used to it.




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