Rear axle shaft C clips

2004 CHEVROLET AVALANCHE
260,000 MILES • 5.3L • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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SONEEMOON
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Hello, when my truck is lifted off the ground, there is about 1/4 inch play when I push and pull on the rear tires. I was told that the C clips inside the differential that hold the axle shafts in place may be worn and need to be replaced. Practically every time I go over a bump, there is a pretty loud noise from the rear. Am I on the right track? Should I also change out the bearings and seal while I am at it?
Aug 20, 2019 at 2:49 PM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Good evening.

No, the play is good. There should be play in the differential. 1/4 inch is not bad.

As far as the noise, you will need to look at the shocks and rear suspension components for wear.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/popping-noise

Roy
Aug 20, 2019 at 3:30 PM
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SONEEMOON
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Thank you! When my car goes over any bump or uneven road, I can actually feel movement in the rear as well as hear the noise. Does that sound more like the springs to you?

I replaced the rear shocks with ones that dealer recommended 2 years ago but those shocks squeak from day one.
Aug 20, 2019 at 4:19 PM
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ASEMASTER6371
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You have something that is securing the rear moving. You need to look at the arms and bushing in the rear.



Roy
Aug 20, 2019 at 4:21 PM
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SONEEMOON
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I don't have control arms in the rear. I replaced all the control arms and bushings in the front.
Aug 20, 2019 at 4:26 PM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Do you have leaf springs or coil springs?

Roy
Aug 20, 2019 at 4:37 PM
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SONEEMOON
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Coil springs.
Aug 20, 2019 at 5:31 PM
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ASEMASTER6371
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You have the arms in the rear. They are just called trailing arms.

Roy
Aug 20, 2019 at 5:36 PM
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SONEEMOON
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Thanks, Roy. I will look into that.
Aug 20, 2019 at 6:13 PM
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ASEMASTER6371
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You are welcome.

Always glad to help.

Roy
Aug 20, 2019 at 6:16 PM