2003 4th gen v8 4x4
When I accelerate hard from a stop I get these pretty bad clunking noises. It doesn’t happen when I brake so I’m guessing it’s in the drivetrain. I have lubed up all 6 nipples in the driveshaft but the noise still persists.

Check this video to hear the sound:

4th gen 4runner 4x4 clunking noise - YouTube

Thank you!

That tick, tick, tick?
Where is the sound coming from?
That would make me nutz.

Almost like the seat mounting or some thing inside the cabin.
You need to chase down the emanating area.
Get a helper, roll the windows down...

Did you solve this?
I have the same truck, same noise started about 5 days ago.

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See if you can isolate where it's coming from in an empty parking garage. The walls make for easier locating. Could be something like a emergency brake part is loose on one of the rear wheels. It's happened to my truck.

It doesn't do it if I coast and no clunk on braking - only on accelaration. Often happened turning so I thought it was CV. Had both CV axles replaced ( boots were hashed when I got it in Feb.) Tested in 4Lo and it added clunking in reverse. Got it home fine and searched here. Sounded lije maybe pinion in front diff? But it's a clunk not gear grinding noise. I greased every zerc on the driveline. Slip joint didn't ooze, it expanded then contracted while taking grease. Driveline is a little loose in the back, but that's not where the clunk is coming from. I checked front diff fluid was full. I guess I could drain and look for metal. Got my husband to let me drag him around alongside the truck (super slow) and he thinks it's coming from the transfer case.

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Mine was more of a constant click click and showed up more turning in one direction.

Do you have the V8 or V6? Seems the AWD system in the V8 can wear the u-joints near the transfer case. If you have a worn one, it could break and destroy your case. I'd start there checking to make sure there's no loose u-joints with the truck on a flat surface in neutral.

V8. I messaged the OP, would love to know what his turned out to be. The description and sound fits mine to a T - and same year, etc.

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Have you done a stall test? Set the parking brake, chock the wheels, place the vehicle in drive while stiffly holding the brake pedal, apply the accelerator, and listen for the noise. Place it in reverse and do the same thing. Have someone watch for movement in the engine compartment and suspension.