Hi all,

I am new to this forum and looking for some advice. I have an 03 V8 4runner. After coming to a stop it makes a loud clunk once throttle is applied to get moving again. Can't tell if it is tranny or drive shaft or rear end. The dealer of course could not duplicate the problem and greased the rear of the drive shaft. I only have 10,000 miles of warranty left so I would like to figure it out soon. Thanks!

 

Silly question, but have you checked the fluid? Changed or flushed it lately?

 

Another silly question, is there even a dipstick for the tranny for a v8 model? I couldnt find one for my 04 v8.

 

It sounds alot like a bad engine mount causing excess movement of the drivetrain under load.

Or it could be a bent exhaust componant or broken exhaust hanger/mount causing the exhaust to hit the floor or frame when the throttle is applied and torque causes the drivetrain to move.

It doesn't sound like something that could leave you stranded or something that would cost alot.

 

Thanks all for the advice. I also would like to know if there is a dipstick for the tranny. It is too loud a clunk for the exhaust so it certainly could be a mount. Anyone had this problem before?

 

This is common in 4Runners and can be fixed by lubing the driveshaft. The main cause of the noise is where the shaft meets the transmission output, there is a U-joint with a grease fitting. While you are under there, I believe there are a total of 7 fittings to grease.

As for the gen 4 transmission, the fluid is not intended to be serviced, unless there is a problem with the trans. in which case a trouble code should trigger a service light. Some owners have changed the fluid, you will need to search the forums to find the procedure as well as ordering the proper oil needed for the service.

 

Thanks Rook. I will grease all 7 points and see if that helps.

 

I have a 2003 4runner v8 4wd and had loud thud noise after vehicle stopped. I found out driveshafts needed lube. Cured it! but I think shaft not holding the grease. Hope you figure it out.