Strange Sound from Drive Train

Pat M · #1 (**permalink**) 06-19-2009, 10:02 AM

My 93 Ranger, 4.0 with a 5-speed manual transmission, is making a strange noise when I take the truck out of gear and roll to a stop. It sounds like the spinner on Wheel of Fortune, or a baseball card in bicycle spokes. It sounds like it is coming from the transmission/drive shaft area, and only happens when the truck is rolling in neutral. The noise prompted me to look under the truck and I discovered the left rear leaf spring mount was rusted away, so I had been driving with the rear end out of alignment. I had the mounts replaced on both sides, and the noise is still there. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Old93junk · #2 (**permalink**) 06-19-2009, 11:45 AM

Does it make the sound under power or coasting?.......Clutch in or out?, almost sounds like a clutch throw-out bearing.

Pat M · #3 (**permalink**) 06-19-2009, 05:23 PM

It makes the sound coasting to a stop, in neutral, with the clutch out. It also makes a slight "clunk" when I put it in gear and take my foot off the clutch.

Traxxis · #4 (**permalink**) 06-19-2009, 08:32 PM

Have you replaced u-joints? How many miles?

Pat M · #5 (**permalink**) 06-19-2009, 09:15 PM

U-joints were replaced 45K miles ago. The clutch was done 60K miles ago.

Old93junk · #6 (**permalink**) 06-19-2009, 10:14 PM

Put all 4 up in the air on jack stands, and get a helper to listen or run the truck. I have had to do this before to pinpoint noises.

El_Jefe · #7 (**permalink**) 06-20-2009, 05:50 AM

I got that clunk too. I have narrowed down to the U-joints...hope that helps!!

Pat M · #8 (**permalink**) 06-20-2009, 03:47 PM

Took it for a long drive today, and it only makes the noise coasting in neutral. Pressing the clutch has no effect on the sound. Thanks for your help.

El_Jefe · #9 (**permalink**) 06-20-2009, 03:53 PM

mine only does it coming out of first...sorry I couldn't be of more help!

Pat M · #10 (**permalink**) 07-02-2009, 12:04 AM

Replaced the rear U-joint and the truck is good as new! 189K miles and going strong. Check those rear leaf-spring mounts if you drive on salty roads.....mine were rusted away.