94 ranger 4x4 rear axle "thump" around corners

[bnichols04]

i am hearing a loud single "thump" noise when i turn either left or right. i jacked up the rear axle and i can duplicate the noise by pulling in and out on either the left or right rear tire. do i need to replace the axle? it seems to be more than normal movement.

 

[Ranger Sport Honduras]

seems like the bearings are worn out.
maybe someone with more knowledge will chime in and say if this is the problem and explain how can u replace them.

 

[bnichols04]

it feels like the axle is moving in hitting the pin in the diff and out pulling on the c-clip. maybe the c-clip is worn out causing excessive movement??

 

[Ranger Sport Honduras]

hmm, no i think its the bearings. at least thats what my cousin told me about his truck the other day.

 

[Sunk]

The c-clips do that normally. Have you checked the suspension?

 

[jhammel85]

I agree that it does sound like the bearings. C clips have a little bit of "play" but nothing that I've ever noticed in a turn. I bet it could do it if they were bad though..
Have you checked the bearings at all or had the diff cover open for anything else recently?

 

[bnichols04]

i measured the movement and it is about 1/2" of movement. i can push on the bed and rock the rear back and forth and i can get it to make the noise. i have not had the cover off before. it has the same amount of movement on both sides. the bearings don't growl or anything.

 

[hondaxr650]

There is always some end play on c-clip axles but the movement increases as the limited slip clutches wear and the side gears move farther outward, away from the center pin. If you really have a 1/2 inch of play, you're due for new clutch packs. I replaced some in a sport trac a couple of weeks ago with the same problem and there was not even a hint of friction material left on any of the plates. It's normal for the axles to move freely sideways in the bearings so I wouldn't be concerned about the bearings.