1988 GMC Sierra Question about a sound.

1988 GMC SIERRA

16,000 MILES • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC

HALL48@PURDUE.EDU

MEMBER
2 POSTS
FOLLOW

I have a 1988 GMC Sierra 4X4 and recently when driving on the interstate, I spun out on ice and through the center ditch. I didn't hit anything, but when I got back on the road a loud thudding sound was coming from my left front tire. I pulled over but it wasn't flat, the tire was fine. At first it only made the sound in 4-wheel drive but now the sound is happening in 2-wheel drive as well. I took it to a mechanic but they only could do a quick check at the time and everything on the outside and tires seemed fine. I was just wondering if you had any ideas on what the problem could be. Thank you.

Feb 8, 2008 at 4:20 PM

MASTERTECHTIM

CERTIFIED EXPERT
4,750 POSTS

well the first thing that comes to mind is something is bent, but if nothing is bent and noise started in 4wd and now in 2wd leads me to believe something is wrong in the front differential. the most common problem is the thrust washer at the 4wd actuator in front diff, over time they wear out and when they break it usually falls down and the front axle will move inside front differential. i would have it professionally looked at before i jumped to any conclusions.

Feb 8, 2008 at 4:39 PM

HALL48@PURDUE.EDU

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Thanks for your advice, I took it to a repair plaxce and all 4 front ball joints were destroyed and the axels were bad. So hopefully it will fix the problems.

Feb 9, 2008 at 2:59 PM