Trans Slippage...or Something Else?

[Offroader5]

'03 4WD limited 4.7/5 speed auto

I've done a bit of searching, but not knowing exactly what the issue is makes it tough to pinpoint a search term.

Seems like every time I come to a stop holding the brake (like at a stop light), when I let up on the brake to transition to the gas to go...there's a slippage or some kind of take-up of slack somewhere in the drivetrain.

Not sure if it's the trans. slipping or if maybe the rear shaft joint is sloppy. Anyone else had this issue?

 

[kylebacc]

I believe you could be experiencing the rear drive shaft slip-joint issue. From what I recall, you should be able to grease it through six zerk fittings on various parts of it, and it should take care of it. Someone else should be able to confirm.

 

[UteRunner]

Driveline Clunk

I agree with Kyle. I had this same issue and properly lubing the drive shafts completely fixed this problem for me. I relube every other oil change. Get yourself a manual (not pneumatic) grease gun and some grease (check your manual) and lube away.
There are differing opinions about how much grease to use, though. I pump enough in until I see the driveline expand. Use too much and you end up getting it all over your garage floor or driveway. Some say you can blow the seals if you use too much.
:thumb3:

 

[M1911]

Yup, driveline clunk. The good news is that it doesn't cost an arm and a leg like a transmission problem -- just some squirts of grease into the zerks. The bad news is that you have to do that on a regular basis.

 

[Offroader5]

Well, if all it takes is me getting under the rig every couple months to grease some zerks then that isn't so bad. Better than thinking there's something worse going on. Thanks guys.