Backlash Clunk

Excessive backlash clunk with acceleration and deceleration may be caused by a worn differential drive pinion gear shaft, worn differential case, excessive clearance between the rear axle shaft and side gear splines, excessive clearance between the side gear hub and counterbore in the case, worn differential drive pinion gear and side gear teeth, worn differential pinion gear thrust washers, and excessive differential ring gear-to-differential drive pinion gear backlash. Remove worn parts and replace as required, selecting close fitting parts when possible. Adjust differential ring gear-to-differential drive pinion gear backlash.