G'day... did a quick google search and this forum came up.. lots of good info here, but couldnt find my problem.

I own a 99 Silverado 4x4, ext cab/short bed, 5.7l, with 197k+ miles.... I don't drive it much, mostly to tow my lil fishing boat or go into the woods.

But, last time I took it on a long haul, a chirping or clicking noise started... then it went away... would be sporadic, always coming when it was inconvenient to listen more thoroughly.. thought it might be the universals, so bought some and got ready to replace... only the driveshaft was solid, no play from bad universals (or so as I have been taught).

Neighbor (who is more of a backyard mechanic then I) listened, and didnt think it was the universals... so we put it up on stands and ran it.... noise was coming from the driveshaft.

Mine appears to be aluminium, one piece.... I am stumped.

Any suggestions?

Thank you

 

Probably the front slip yoke on the differential. They have a kit for it that includes the slip yoke and u-joint. I let the shop do it for me and sound is gone and no play at all when i start to accelerate. I have a 1999 Silverado Z71 with 117,000 miles.

 

When mine went bad I didnt feel play either until I took the shaft down and then it just fell apart. I would replace anyways.

 

I work construction away from home, so I apologize for letting this slide....

To be more elaborate, its a metallic clicking sound coming from the middle of the aluminium driveshaft, as if a piece of weld or metal is inside. Doesn't happen all the time. When we put it up on the jackstands and ran it, it was very clear that this was the area the sound was coming from... NOT either end of the driveshaft.

Any help?

 

had the same type noise you are describing on our company van. Wound up being the U-joints. Go ahead and replace them since you bought them and see if that doesn't do the job.

 

Squeek can be a universal joint. Common when dry. If may not feel loose, it wil become stuff. Remove the driveshaft and wiggle each joint on its 2 axis.