Front End *THUD*

[MrSeth]

Hey all.

Something I noticed today on my 4runner that I filmed just to see what was making the noise.

Earlier today I replaced my front U-joints, but in going from Drive to Reverse or Park to either one of them, I have a loud THUD. I believe it is the CV shafts. When i let off the gas or slowly accelerate while turning, an audible Click click click can be heard.

Upon review of my video, when going from P to D or D to R, I can see the CV move- it will rotate forward and thud, then rotate backwards and thud.

With the car off and in Park, I can wiggle the inner part of the shaft in and out, and rotate it a little forwards and backwards.


Several friends watched the video and said my front differential is totally screwed up and I need to replace it. Im hoping that this is not the case.

has anyone had experience with this issue?

Any and all help is greatly appreciated!!!!!!

-Seth

 

[MrSeth]

Also- it is only the Driver's side that is doing this. The passenger side seems firm.

 

[JT_4Runner]

First thing that comes to mind when you say Drivers side only is the possibility that the Needle Bearing is worn out.

Are you running OEM CVs?

 

[MrSeth]

First thing that comes to mind when you say Drivers side only is the possibility that the Needle Bearing is worn out.

Are you running OEM CVs?

I am running OEM CV's- is the needle bearing a part thats in the CV joint itself or inside the transfer case? Im really freaked out that my transfer case is totally shot (although it really doesnt have any reason to be)

I've got a new CV shaft assembly coming in tomorrow- I plan on doing an install with photos, plus cutting into the old one to see what all is damaged and worn.

 

[JT_4Runner]

I am running OEM CV's- is the needle bearing a part thats in the CV joint itself or inside the transfer case? Im really freaked out that my transfer case is totally shot (although it really doesnt have any reason to be)

I've got a new CV shaft assembly coming in tomorrow- I plan on doing an install with photos, plus cutting into the old one to see what all is damaged and worn.

Yeah the needle bearing is going to be on the drivers side right where the CV seats. Lifts wear them out and ECGS offers a smooth sleeve that deals better with the lifts and takes out a bunch of play in the CV. Im no mechanic but I doubt its the transfer case.

Ive was running some cheap Oriely CVs and they started binding when I lifted the front. The passengers side wheel for example would only spin ever so slightly before it would thud and same thing when you rotated it backwards. Got the CVJ axles and all is well again. My father did suggest looking at the transfer case because they see it in the BMWs. He suggested I unplug the motor on the transfer case and see if it still does it. If it does continue to do it I would say its not transfer case