When I took my front end apart recently I noticed that the drivers side axle was missing the retaining clip that holds everything together. I used to have some clunking noises coming from the front end when I turned. I wonder if that has anything to do with it.
Also when I had the truck in 4-hi (only did it once) and got up to around 40mph I got a real nasty clunk/grinding noise. Do you think this was related to the clip being missing? I already ordered and picked up the missing clip from the dealership, just seeing if anyone had any thoughts on this. Thanks!

 

After installing the clip no more clunking noises around corners.
Haven't tried it out in 4wd yet.

 

did you forget to install the axle retaining clip retaining clip?

anyways... yay!

 

to answer your original question, yes not having that clip in there will cause the describe symptoms. reason being, the axle will back out the spindle at the most inopportune moments.

 

good thing you caught it!
i hate when your working on your rig and you dont find something thats suppose to be there. damn previous owners.

 

make sure it's not worn out either or you'll end up with something like
http://beaniam.com/cars/truck/stripped2.JPG