Popping/Clunking Noise

[Ando427]

Hey guys, sorry if I put this in an inappropriate section. I have a 1996 Ford Ranger 4 cyl 4x4. For some time now there has been a popping noise when turning the wheel left or right. My tie rod ends were in pretty rough shape so I replaced those to no avail. Then I noticed the bushings on my trailing arms had broken down and were allowing movement so I replaced those, which helped a little bit. However the noise is still pretty bad. Today, I climbed under the truck and had a friend turn the wheel back and forth. When he did this I noticed the whole front drive shaft and axle would "pop" up or down at the extremes of turning to each side. What would be causing this movement?

 

[RonD]

Welcome to TRS

Check the Ball Joints

If bad read here: http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/balljoints2.shtml

Also replace front axle u-joints at this time.

 

[4x4junkie]

Check the bolts holding the steering box to the frame.

Also, turning the wheel to full lock and putting pressure on it can cause the suspension to move up & down a bit (especially if the truck is lifted and the steering linkage angle is off by a bit).

 

[Ando427]

Thanks guys! Steering box is solid. My suspicion now lies with the slip yoke. The noise can also be heard upon acceleration and braking, and the splines on the slip yoke are somewhat rubbed down and full of dirt so I don't think it's moving as it should. I will try pulling off the front driveshaft, checking for the noise afain, and if no noise at this point I'll inspect the slip yoke and either replace it or properly clean and lube it up.