Need help identifying my problem

[cmherd30]

To start off I have a 1999 ford ranger 3.0 4x4 with manual transmission. The problem I have is a loud grinding noise coming from the rear, most of the time it's when it's on interstate. This grinding noise will stop with a loud bang when I slow down coming off an exit, it's almost like something is releasing, and its back to normal. I originally thought it was my rear brakes, but i've taken them off and replaced them. It also does this sometimes when I take off out of first gear. Any help from you guys would be greatly appreciated !!!

 

[shane96ranger]

My first guess would be brakes. But if you're certain you've ruled that out, it sounds like it might be related to the differential internals. Have you jacked it up, and tried spinning the rear tires to try and replicate the sound?

 

[redneck_rainey]

u joints brother, ranger eat u joints like candy. and the pop you hear is the slop in the bearings that are trashed

 

[adsm08]

Check the U joints (or just replace them, they are cheap and easy insurance) and then drop the diff cover and see what blew up.