Hello, my 93 AWD makes clicking/cracking noises at low speeds when I'm backing up & turning the wheel or starting to go forward. No high-speed noise or vibration. Would this be the half-shafts? If so, from reading an earlier post, I'm confused whether or not I need a special puller.

Thanks,
Biederboat

 

1990 4.0 I would grease my ball joints first.

 

Most probably upper control arm bushings. The symptoms you describe match worn bushings. This assumes ball joints and tie rod ends are ok.

91 4.0 AWD regular 156,200 miles

 

Another vote for ball joints. They can make some gawdawful creaking and cracking noises if they are going bad.

Lift one front wheel off the ground by jacking under the spring pocket on the control arm (keep the jack clear of the ball joint & grease nipple). Lifting this way takes the spring load off the ball joint.

Grab the tire at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions and rock the wheel top to bottom. Look for play in both the upper and lower ball joints. Also lift the tire straight up & down while looking for play.

If you have a ball joint bad enough to creak & crack, it'll be obvious which one is worn out.

Cheers,
Eric