Shudder when pulling away from a stop. Common problem? 2005 4X4, SC, 6', Auto, 4.0

[Sternwheeler]

When I pull away from a stop sign gently my truck shudders like something heavy slid to the back and struck the tailgate. If I give it gas with my foot clamped on the brake, nothing. Has anyone else had these symptoms? A very good mechanic in my area only found some play in the telescoping section of the driveshaft and was not confident that it could be causing the sensation. (He drove the vehicle as well, of course.) With the symptom shrouded in mystery, I don't know which help section to use in the forums.

 

[Rooster]

Is it a shudder or a “thump”? The driveshaft could definitely cause a thump. I’ve had it in a Ranger and an F-150, it’s very common with the F-150s. Ford put out a TSB on it, 12-7-13.

 

[Sternwheeler]

Is it a shudder or a “thump”? The driveshaft could definitely cause a thump. I’ve had it in a Ranger and an F-150, it’s very common with the F-150s. Ford put out a TSB on it, 12-7-13.

Shudder. I realize my "object sliding in the bed" analogy doesn't hold up. There are two or three small sensations in less than a second.