1997 D1: There's a distinct ka-plunk from the left-rear wheel approx every three feet with the vehicle barely moving (babying it). I realize it could be any number of things, but hoping, simplest things first, it's a bad wheel bearing(s). This has led to another question. Is it possible to turn the wheel freely, no diff involved, and simply listen to it? I jacked up the wheel after putting both the transmission (automatic) and CDL in neutral. Wheels chocked/jack stand, of course. Right on cue, the "high-pitched, audible warning chime" confirmed that the transfer gearbox was in neutral. This is the procedure, neutral-neutral, to tow the truck, so it would seem that all wheels would be free even if the drive train was turning. However, spinning the tire in either direction meets resistance. Ka-plunk ideas appreciated, but, for future reference, how would you tow a D1 freely for a short distance behind another vehicle?

 

Yes, with everything in neutral you should be able to spin one wheel, assuming you have an open diff. If you jack up both rear wheels the one on the other side will turn in the opposite direction from the one you're turning. If the hub bearing is disintegrated it might be causing an intermittent clunk.

 

CV axel may be toast. Ka-plunk could be one or more of the ***** missing in the joint.

 

D1's don't have CV's in the rear axle.

 

He did say rear. Sorry misread