1996 Ford Ranger Clunk or banging, Driveshaft or Tranny?

ERNREB1

MEMBER
1996 FORD RANGER
6 CYL
4WD
MANUAL
260,000 MILES

It sounds like a banging in my Transmission, most especially when I down shift but also sometimes when I go in reverse and sometimes Even when Im starting out in 1st gear. But most notably when I have downshifted. I do not notice a change in RPMs or much vibration through the shifter. Upon closer inspection I have noticed some play in the driveshaft and the sound it makes when I manually (with my hand) work the play in the drive shaft sound like what I am hearing as I downshift. Im not sure if the play is in the Trans or the rear differential.
What would cause this play and how might I be able to fix it?

3 Replies

JAMES W.

MECHANIC
2,394 POSTS

With the transmissiom in neutral if you can turn the rear driveshaft more than a few degrees, you probably have a differential problem. By a few degrees, I mean about "8" which very little. If the rearend is bad, you should hear a howl when going down the road at 35 to 45 MPH. Please advise.

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Tuesday, December 2nd, 2008 AT 3:40 PM

ERNREB1

MEMBER
1 POST

I dont know how many degrees but I estimate 1 - 1 1/2 inches of play in the driveshaft when I turn it by hand. I cannot hear any howling but I have a louder exhaust system so I may be missing it. Any other at home tests you could suggest to confirm that it is a problem in the rear end?
Anything would be appreciated.
Thanks

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Tuesday, December 2nd, 2008 AT 8:12 PM

JAMES W.

MECHANIC
2,394 POSTS

The slack in the rearend, going by inches should not be more than 1/4" of play. With an 1 1/2, you're definately going to hear a clunk. I would say you found your problem. Hope this helps.

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Tuesday, December 2nd, 2008 AT 8:45 PM