1997 Ford F150 rear differential?

1997 FORD F-150
224,000 MILES • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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MOSH4JESUS
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It started happening about a month ago. When I put my truck into drive or reverse there is a huge slamming noise. When i was diagnosing my truck i realized that the noise is coming from the rear axle. I went to Napa and they told me it was probably the rear differential but also told me it could be a accelaration problem. I was wondering if there could be other causes. Something cheaper to try first? I heard about lubrication on the differential, could i need to do that? I have no idea how to change the differential either, is it hard?

Thankyou for all your help
Feb 27, 2008 at 2:15 PM
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MERLIN2021
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Have you checked the U-Joints? Is any fluid leaking from the differential?
Feb 27, 2008 at 2:57 PM
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MOSH4JESUS
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I don't know much about the u joints. I do know that there is no fluid leaking from the differential. Its is weird because it only slams into gear, but once in gear runs just fine. No wheezing or squeling when accelerating.
Feb 28, 2008 at 1:50 PM
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MERLIN2021
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How is your engine idle? OK or a tad high? Loose or worn u-joint will also slam...but will usually squeak a bit under way!
Feb 28, 2008 at 3:26 PM
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RD2020
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I just had a u joint that was going out. It was fine when moving, but clunked hard when putting in gear. It was just 1 side of the joint. Try wiggling the u joints around and twisting the shafts, to see if there is any play where the u joints go together.
May 21, 2011 at 2:05 AM
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MERLIN2021
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rd200 thanks for the input, but check the date on this post, Feb 2008, I think the problem is solved.
May 21, 2011 at 1:32 PM
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RD2020
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sry merlin had a blond moment LOL!!
May 21, 2011 at 7:32 PM
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MERLIN2021
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no problem!
May 23, 2011 at 7:47 AM