Knocking noise in rear end on bumpy roads

[vonD1025]

I’m getting a really weird knocking noise from my 87’ Bronco ii. Everything looks good to me and I just replaced all the shocks. Could it be this spacing on this bracket attached to the leaf springs?

 

[Dirtman]

No the spring clamps are fine like that. Looks like something is hitting the exhaust though, also looks like the parking brake cable is hitting the shock.

 

[vonD1025]

It seems like it’s coming more from the drivers side.

 

[Shran]

Sway bar bushings would be my first guess. Check your rear body mounts for rust too.

 

[vonD1025]

It did actually start on both side now. I’m getting those bushing replaced and hopefully it clears up!

 

[vonD1025]

Sway bar bushings would be my first guess. Check your rear body mounts for rust too.

I replaced the rear sway bar bushings but I’m still getting that noise. I’m gunna check the u bolts again and see if I missed anything.

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

Check shock bushings. Check shackle bushings.

 

[Shran]

What about the factory jack/jack handle? Seem to remember they are stored in the back somewhere? Maybe it's loose?

 

[vonD1025]

What about the factory jack/jack handle? Seem to remember they are stored in the back somewhere? Maybe it's loose?

That’s on the passenger side behind the seat. It’s all tightened down.

 

[vonD1025]

I’m thinking it’s something to do with u bolts, center bolt, or the shackles.

 

[4x4junkie]

Do you have a limited slip rear differential? If so, you might check the axle shafts for end play.
Jack up one side, release the parking brake (be sure to block the front wheels from rolling) and see if the rear wheels (axle shafts) move in & out at all (up to 3/16" or so).

If so, it's because the limited slip clutches have worn down to some extent, causing the differential side gear to move outward. This opens up a gap between the end of the axle and the differential cross pin, and would be the source of the noise (in which case it's harmless, though still annoying).

New clutch stacks would fix it.

 

[vonD1025]

Yeah I’ve got the 4.10 gearing with limited slip. Thanks for the info! I’m replacing the rear driveshaft, leaf springs, and pinion seal right now. I’ll check it out while I’m under there.