Does This Sound Like Bad U-joints?

[97whitez71]

I have a real bad squeek ONLY when I back up. It sort of sounds like a rock stuck in the rear brake drum. I thought that's what it was but I checked and no rocks. Had the wife back it up while I layed beside it and it sounds like it's coming from the center of the rear drive shaft. I know the drive shaft is hollow, so the only explanation, to me, is a bad u-joint. When I grab either the front or rear u-joint, they feel tight. When I drive forward, no squeeks, clunks, vibrations or anything. Opinions? Thanks!

[dewfpo]

I had similar sounds on other trucks and it turned out to be dry needle bearings in the u-joints. It needs to be replaced, make sure you replace it with the greasable kind.

 

DEWFPO

[txab]

U joints are only loose when they are totally shot. Pull the drive line and feel the u joint with your hand while turning it. You'll probably find it is very dry and in need of replacement

[jrod332]

I had the same symptoms a few months ago. It was the u-joints. Like txab said they will usually only have play when they are totally gone. You wont be able to feel it when the shaft is still in place.

[lfb57]

Yep my first guess is U joint.

[oldscsc]

Not all bad U-joints are loose though. For example, my U-joint (at the tranny) went dry and welded itself together. It just bound when I drove but still felt tight. That sealed factory U-joint lasted over 300k

[97whitez71]

Changed them tonight. I changed both rear u-joints. The bad joint ended up being one cap in the u-joint at the transmission. Dang near welded itself together. That one was fun to get out. Thanks!!!

[txab]