Hi guys, I've been following for awhile and just want to say thanks for all the great advice, but this is something I haven't been able to find with the search.....For the past 2 day there has been a popping sound coming from the rear end of my 98 2wd, it only happens while I brake and only once until I left of the brake, roll a little, then press it again, I can feel it in the pedal also, I've heard brakes or maybe even u-joint, where should I start to look

fyi

1. Only does it while braking, seems louder at lower speed
2. Dont think it happens in reverse
3. Looked at rear u-joint and doesnt look like there was any movement
4. Doesnt happen if parked and pump brake
5. Everything looks dry and fluid levels are good

 

Sounds like somethings loose. You need to take a look at your rear brakes.

 

jack up the rear end of the truck, remove tire/wheel. try to remove brake drum and inspect what's going on. if the drum won't come off due to the wear lip of the drum catching on the shoe, then you might have to twist the adjuster to move the shoes in. this requires some patience.

also make sure your parking brake is not on and that its not adjusted up too tight.

if you've not replaced the brakes in the past 2-3-4 years, you're probably due.
https://dodgeforum.com/forum/2nd-gen...-pictures.html

 

Well I got as far as jacking up the truck before learning that 3 of the lug nuts are cross threaded (thank you BelleTire) so it will have to wait till the weekend to bust em out and replace the studs, I'll keep you posted and thanks for the info

 

The cross threaded lugs might BE the problem.....

 

X2. If the nuts didnt get torqued to the wheel, the wheel and axle will move seperately. Still would be a good idea to check the brakes while your there.

 

Touche' my friends, its the simple things that are over looked isnt it.

 

You are going to have it all apart to replace lug studs anyway...... inspect things while you are in there.