Rear end click, click, click noise?

Tiny
RICHARDONZELLE
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 DODGE RAM
  • 4.7L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 235,000 MILES
Positrac limited slip differential, backing up sounds like gears slipping. Then forward at slower speeds I hear a tick, tick, tick. It never gets loud, just constant when you have the driver's window open. I haven't changed fluid in a long time. Brakes are only a year old, look good. Would changing fluids and sdding positrac additive cure the possible noise. Engine runs great for high miles. (Had a top end done 2 years ago. 4.7)
Friday, July 14th, 2023 AT 9:39 AM

7 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

A clicking usually isn't in the differential. Instead, it is often caused by a failing universal joint. Have you checked that? If not, that is where I would recommend starting.

Here is a link that explains how to inspect and replace a universal joint:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/comprehensive-guide-to-checking-and-replacing-an-automotive-drive-shaft-u-joint

Let me know. Also, it would be a good idea to confirm the gear lube in the differential is full. Pay attention to whether it is clean as well.

Take care,

Joe
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Friday, July 14th, 2023 AT 9:44 PM
Tiny
RICHARDONZELLE
  • MEMBER
  • 12 POSTS
Checked gear lube in differential. Full. Looked at bearings on ends of drive shaft. No rust or evidence of wear. But the front drive shaft at transfer case is loose and appears to be somewhat broken with nose entering transfer case. No leaks. Bolts on the front differential are tight. Could the nose shaft somehow be broken?
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Saturday, July 15th, 2023 AT 2:57 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

Are you referring to the universal joint at the transfer case? If that is loose, certainly that can be causing a noise.

I attached directions for replacing a U-joint on this vehicle. Take a look at them and let me know if that is what you are seeing.

Let me know.

Joe

See pics below.
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Saturday, July 15th, 2023 AT 10:03 PM
Tiny
RICHARDONZELLE
  • MEMBER
  • 12 POSTS
It appears that the shaft going into the transfer case is wobbling. It is the only source that I can find of that "tick, tick" noise. The shaft is obviously either cracked inside or broken. The nose shaft is still intact outside the transfer case. And is not visible on inspection except other by manually wiggling by hand. To unbolt and attempt to remove the front drive shaft. It appears the crossover exhaust pipe will interfere with easy change out. And on a Dodge Ram 1500, unlike a Ford etc. Would I lose fluid from the transfer case if removed? Is there a seal inside the transfer case? I have never changed a front shaft before on a Dodge. Thanks for your answers.
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Sunday, July 16th, 2023 AT 6:59 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

The crossover pipe is in the way; you are correct. It needs to be removed. If I recall, one end of the shaft will have a traditional universal joint and the other has a CV joint. The CV joints can be rebuilt. With this many miles, it likely is just worn out.

As far as directions are concerned, I attached them below. If you have questions or run into trouble, let me know. Also, if you take a couple of pics of the part that you suspect is bad and upload them for me to see, it may help me.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
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Sunday, July 16th, 2023 AT 11:13 AM
Tiny
RICHARDONZELLE
  • MEMBER
  • 12 POSTS
No dust boot at entrance into transfer case. 2003. Will I lose fluid in the removal process? Can I remove shaft by just removing the left side of exhaust pipe?
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Sunday, July 16th, 2023 AT 12:03 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

I believe the pipe needs to be removed. As far as fluid, you may lose a little, but not too much. Do me a favor. Take a pic of what you are dealing with and upload it for me to see. That way I will have a better understanding.

Let me know.

Joe
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Sunday, July 16th, 2023 AT 8:12 PM

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