Rear end click, click, click noise?

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)

7 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,640 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

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

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,640 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

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

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,640 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.

Images (Click to make bigger)