Ford 2003 Mustang Workshop Manual page 273

2. NOTE: Measure the end play with a Dial Indicator with Bracketry and not by feel.
Knock is also caused by excessive end play in the axle shafts. Up to 0.762 mm (0.030 inch) is
allowed in semi-float axles. The frequency of the knock will be less because the axle shaft
speed is slower than the driveshaft.
Clunk
Clunk is a metallic noise heard when the automatic transmission is engaged in REVERSE or DRIVE.
The noise may also occur when throttle is applied or released. It is caused by backlash somewhere in
the driveline or loose suspension components; it is felt or heard in the axle. Refer to Total Backlash
Check in this section.
Additionally, clunk may be heard upon initial drive-away. This occurs as engine torque shifts vehicle
weight, forcing changes in driveline angles, preventing the driveshaft slip-yoke from sliding on the
output shaft. To correct for this condition, lubricate the slip-yoke splines.
Total Backlash Check
1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to
2. Remove the driveshaft. Refer to
3. Install the special tool.
Clamp a rigid bar or pipe to the tool. Clamp the other end of the bar or pipe to the frame
or a body member in order to prevent movement of the rear axle pinion flange.
4. Lower the vehicle so that one rear wheel is resting on a wheel chock to prevent it from turning.
The other rear wheel will be used to measure total rear axle backlash.
5. Rotate the free wheel slowly, by hand, until the feeling of driving the rear axle is encountered.
Place a mark on the side of the tire, 305 mm (12 inches) from the center of the wheel, with a
Section 100-02
Section 205-01 .
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