Need help with my Pathy!

[pathfindervirgin]

I recently purchased a 91 pathfinder in mint condition for a steal. However, I have come to find out that there is a problem with the drive train somewhere. It's a 5 speed and when I accelerate in 1st, 2nd and sometimes in reverse I get a delayed clunking noise, kind of feels like something has slid around in the back and stops suddenly against the door. I was wondering if it was possible if the limited slip was going but there is no play in the rear end, the drive shaft is tight. Could it be axle related?? The Dif fluid is clean and topped up to the right level. Any thoughts???

[TrailChaser]

Welcome to the board.

 

Are you saying the clunking noise is coming from the rear diff? The PO may have installed a locker. Do you mainly hear the noise while turning sharp?

[Slick]

i had this mysterious noise when i first installed the new motor.. checked, double checked and nothing was amiss... noise is gone now..... never did find out wtf it was push on your tranny with your foot.... i hear the tranny mounts can make a similar noise when old n saggy.... chewck u joints.. how hard on the gas are you? i am easy on the gas but unless i was super gentle i would get the noise... 4 months later it just stopped. (i also have a 5 speed)

check to make sure you're not locked in 4wd if you have OEM auto locking hubs too... i have aftermarket hubs so that was not my cause of my problem....check your bell housing bolts too. i know it sounds weird but i went through all these motions.. another thing that i found on ym rear sway bars it had loosened up and was easily jiggled around by hand ......... also around the time the noise stopped......

[Extreme90path]

what slick said...

[pathfindervirgin]

I am pretty easy on the gas. I will check the tranny mounts and the check out the rear end.. I was wondering if it might be something to do with the 4x4 how would I know if it is locked in 4wd? I assume it would be locked in 4hi. I checked into manual locking hubs but they dont make them for my year. Any suggestions?? Also, does anyone else find the steering quite loose when off road? I thought about installing a steering dampener but was told to check the tie rods. Thanks for all your suggestions.

[88pathoffroad]

A diff locker works in 2 or 4WD. There are manual hubs for your year Pathfinder, yes. Look harder. The centerlink is the main reason for steering looseness, but all the steering components have a reputation for getting loose, so check everything.