[BADRACR1]

Originally Posted by Grey Ghost

from google

"A "clunk" in the rear when putting in gear can be a few things. First would be the front differential mount bushing. It is a rubber/steel mount that holds the front of the diff. to the chassis.
When the rubber deteriorates, it allows the diff. to flip up/down, as you put it in gear, or even sometimes when you first take off, or slow down(on-off the gas quickly). They are replacable fairly easily.


Second, you could have u-joints in the driveshaft, or either/both of the half shafts worn/damaged, that could cause a clunk noise. (There is also a possibility of the half shaft flanges being loose on the stub shafts. This is not a common issue, and doubtfull that it is your noise...just info for you.)

Finally, you could have wear in the ring/pinion gears in the differential. This usually manifests itself as a growling, or whine noise while driving, but can also make a clunking noise, depending on what may actually be worn."

I think if you could put it on a lift or jack stands and rotate the wheels to see if you hear exactly where the sound is coming from before having the shop tear into rear pumpkin

No noise going into forward or reverse. Only when pulling off from a stop. Sort of a shudder and slight popping. I suspect pinion.