So far since buying my truck ('97 F150 XLT 4X4) 3 months ago, I've replace the trans filter and fluid, engine oil, flushed radiator, new rotors and brake pads on the front, air filter, fuel filter, headlamp bulbs and on last Tuesday replaced the U-joints.

Those at the October meeting will remember the clunking noise I had a problem with. I read about a clunk that many Fords apparently have that's caused by the spline and that greasing it will eliminate the problem. Well the U-joints didn't have the usual signs of wear that you can detect while still installed but when I dropped the driveshaft there was to much play. I greased the spline and put in the new U-joints, and the problem is gone. I'm pretty sure it wasn't the spline as the sound seemed to come from the rear end or rear springs.

Anyway, my next project will be the differential. It's a 3:55 open rear end and I'd like to have a LS and maybe disk brakes. Any suggestions for a bolt in later model swap?

 

Hi David...........good to hear you found the cause of the noise safely and without damage.