Questions and Answers
Chevy Suburban Makes A Noise
Q. In my 1985 Chevy Suburban diesel I hear a loud "klank" when I shift from reverse to drive. I've ben told it was probably the universal joints. How can I check to see if it is the joints or the rear end or transmission?
Thanks,
MikeA. It is relatively easy to see a bad universal joint, especially one bad enough to make noise. Twist the drive shaft back and forth and see if there is any play in the joints. There should be no play at all. If there is, they are bad and need to be replaced. Also look at the joint cups and see if there are any signs of rust. If it looks like the rust is coming from inside the cups, replace the joints.
The next thing to look at would be the rear transmission mount. They do break and will cause a noise when shifting gears.
If the "U" joints are good and tight, then the noise is most likely coming from the rear end. That's typical of this truck at this milage.
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