Clunking noise ?

[JNR]

I am hearing a distinct clunking noise from the rear of my Sy, when I travel over any rough road surfaces. I jacked the truck up and if I push/pull on the wheel/tire a bit I hear a hollow clunking noise. I get the noise on both sides, and can simulate it by pushing sideways on the truck bed with the tires on the ground.

I did some searches and found some info anout torsion bar mounts, but I replaced those a few years ago so I don't really think thats the issue. This noise is too far back anyway I think. Is this noise possibly from bad rear wheel bearings, or possible too much end play? No sign of seal leakage.

Oh yeah...my wheels are on tight...I checked!!

Any info is appreciated, getting tired of hearing this hollow clunking noise.

 

[myclone]

Short version:

This is a common noise with any solid rear axle vehicle due to how the axles are retained inside the carrier. Nothing to worry about 99% of the time unless the rear diff is making noises other than when you push the vehicle side to side.

Long version:

The clunk youre hearing when the truck goes over a bump or you push on the truck bed side to side is the axle retaining "clip" banging against the spider gear inside the diff as well as the end of the axle hitting the retaining pin inside the diff. If you jack the truck up and pull the rear diff cover off then have a friend/helper push the tire/wheel in and out you will see how the parts Ive mentioned make the noise.

Some diffs are worse than others as well as milage and abuse its been put through will also have an affect on how loud the "clunk" is.

 

[DynaGlide]

I replaced my torsion bar mounts less than a year ago... and I already have one broken again. Perhaps I'll raise the front end 1/2" before my next alignment and replace the mounts again. Maybe I'm not giving my suspension enough travel.

Is your front end lowered a lot too?