'05 F150 Popping/Clunking Noise when in 4WD
#1
05-12-2014, 08:11 PM
'05 F150 Popping/Clunking Noise when in 4WD
Hey guys, I've read alot of info about the 4WD system on the F150's, and I'm having trouble diagnosing what might be going on with mine.
When I put my truck in 4HI (or 4LO), I get a popping sound that seems to come from the front middle/front drivers side when going at speeds around 20-25 and over. I don't experience any loss in traction (that I can tell) or power, but the popping is very loud and noticeable (passengers can hear it clearly).
My problem is a little different than most, as their issues with popping seem to happen when they are not in 4WD, where mine is only when in 4WD.
I replaced the IWE solenoid today (wanted to anyway to get the updated casing/shroud) and the problem stayed. I also disconnected the vacuum lines at the solenoid and drove - no noise. I then kicked in 4WD on the switch, and the noise started, which leads me to think it is not vacuum related.
I am kind of lost as to what may be going on. I would think something where teeth broke, etc. would make noise all the time in 4WD, not intermittently or at certain speeds. The noise sounds almost like popcorn popping. I went up the same hill about a dozen times today, and it happened maybe 5-6 times. I don't hear it often (if at all) with speeds below 20 MPH. I can switch in and out of 2WD, 4HI, and 4LO all day with no issues, as well.
The only modifications to the front end have been a 2.5 inch leveling kit, and the only other issues I notice in the front end is a shaking when on the highway, that seems to go away after a while of driving at the same speed. I recently had a front end alignment, and the only thing the tech mentioned was that I will need ball joints in the next 6-8 months (but he said they weren't bad).
Any ideas?
When I put my truck in 4HI (or 4LO), I get a popping sound that seems to come from the front middle/front drivers side when going at speeds around 20-25 and over. I don't experience any loss in traction (that I can tell) or power, but the popping is very loud and noticeable (passengers can hear it clearly).
My problem is a little different than most, as their issues with popping seem to happen when they are not in 4WD, where mine is only when in 4WD.
I replaced the IWE solenoid today (wanted to anyway to get the updated casing/shroud) and the problem stayed. I also disconnected the vacuum lines at the solenoid and drove - no noise. I then kicked in 4WD on the switch, and the noise started, which leads me to think it is not vacuum related.
I am kind of lost as to what may be going on. I would think something where teeth broke, etc. would make noise all the time in 4WD, not intermittently or at certain speeds. The noise sounds almost like popcorn popping. I went up the same hill about a dozen times today, and it happened maybe 5-6 times. I don't hear it often (if at all) with speeds below 20 MPH. I can switch in and out of 2WD, 4HI, and 4LO all day with no issues, as well.
The only modifications to the front end have been a 2.5 inch leveling kit, and the only other issues I notice in the front end is a shaking when on the highway, that seems to go away after a while of driving at the same speed. I recently had a front end alignment, and the only thing the tech mentioned was that I will need ball joints in the next 6-8 months (but he said they weren't bad).
Any ideas?
Last edited by nfazer; 05-12-2014 at 08:14 PM. Reason: Add Info
#3
05-13-2014, 11:19 PM
IWE's look good; no visible cracks or wear. The vacuum lines are tight on them, as well.
I've got an appointment for next Friday at the dealership it came from; the truck has a 3 month warranty that this *should* be covered under.
The dealership is 2.5 hours way, so it has to wait until my next day off to get checked out. The good news is that I know the mechanic who will be working on it, so even if they decide to slide themselves out of the warranty work, I'll at least know whats wrong, so I can buy parts and work on it myself.
I've got an appointment for next Friday at the dealership it came from; the truck has a 3 month warranty that this *should* be covered under.
The dealership is 2.5 hours way, so it has to wait until my next day off to get checked out. The good news is that I know the mechanic who will be working on it, so even if they decide to slide themselves out of the warranty work, I'll at least know whats wrong, so I can buy parts and work on it myself.
#5
05-14-2014, 07:37 PM
Well fellas, I think I found the problem. The drivers side wheel bearing is shot. After removing the rim center cap, I found the dust cap nowhere, and the bearings showing. I threw a socket on there and could move the CV axle all around. I took the dust cap off of the passenger side, and saw the seal and retainer clip intact. Ordered a new hub assembly and will be replacing tomorrow. I've attached images for others to see the comparison.
This would also explain my shaking issue, as well.
This would also explain my shaking issue, as well.
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