hello df' ers

i have this rattling (sounds like a exhaust clamp rattling on pipe) coming from the rear passenger side of my truck and its driving me insane i have checked everything i could think of i went under there with a rubber mallet and hit everything. no luck not exhaust not heat shield nothings lose and it only happens on bumps or vibrations. i even drove a buddy around in the bed to try to pinpoint location and still couldn't find it please help


signed "going in sane"

 

Since you said it only happens over bumps, try jacking up the rear (not at the axle) and repeat the mallet procedure. Something may be loose with the weight off of it.

Also ... try to move the spare and make sure it's ALL the way up.

 

good idea i havent jacked it up yet but i did check the spare and tightened it

 

Also ... check the torque on the shock bolts/nuts ... should be about 100 lb/ft ... that's a lot.

 

is your exhaust dual or an aftermarket?

 

check the catalytic converter. i just got rid of a nasty rattle by welding the heat shield for the cat back on.

 

I would bet its the heat shield... I know you did the mallet test but I had the same issue with a 97 Dakota... I couldn't make it act up but when I replaced the cat (which had a new heat shield) the noise went away...

 

i had a similar rattle from left rear that was the lower shock bolt. the body of the bolt was eaten away, so instead of being 9/16 it was worn down to about 3/8 and it would rattle when you hit a bump. but, since yours is on the right i'd bet on muffler or cat.

 

havent had a chance to try these new ideas out yet but will repost at first chance thanxfor the tips