Chevy Silverado driveshaft clunk?

2011 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
172,000 MILES • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
RCBECKLEY88
So if you have 4wd are you supposed to service the slip yoke or not? Some say it’s ok with a little moly grease on the splines and others say no it will contaminate the TC fluid. Mine is a 2011 1500 4x4
Jun 4, 2026 at 9:58 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,480 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Yep, this problem is common, I would service the slip yoke and file the burrs on the yoke which are left behind from the manufacturer. This is caused by spring rap so I would re-tighten the rear U bolts for the differential. Here is a video to show you how to do the job, the truck is similar but the procedure is the same.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p2snOCyqVMY

Please use moly grease and clean the output shaft and yoke splines completely before applying the grease and reassembly. Let me know how it goes

Jun 6, 2026 at 11:01 PM
Avatar
RCBECKLEY88
  • MEMBER
  • 11 POSTS
Do you need to put the back of the truck on jack stands to take pressure off rear suspension? After taking the straps off I could not get it to break free from rear differential. I soaked it in PB blaster and tried tapping on the ears and tried a crow bar with no success. I know it’s probably a little rust seized in there but the videos I watched didn’t have near the trouble I’m having. I do have 3 inch lift so not sure if this is causing more suspension bind than normal.
Jun 7, 2026 at 12:30 AM
Avatar
RCBECKLEY88
  • MEMBER
  • 11 POSTS
The 2 day soak in PB blaster worked as it popped off easily from rear differential. Splines looked dry with a little film on them. Cleaned up and lightly greased then reinstalled. Straightforward job hope it helps.
Jun 7, 2026 at 8:19 PM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,480 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Yep the 3 inch lift does make the spring rap worse. Let me know after you drive it to see if that fixed the problem. Did you file down the spline burs?
Jun 8, 2026 at 3:10 PM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.