I have an '03 4Runner w/ V8 & 4wd...81,000 miles. While at stop signs, it makes a dull clunk and a slight clunk can be felt, almost like you were just hit from behind...any ideas? Also, when backing up for the first time in the morning, it always makes a louder thud just once, then it's good to go!

 

mstrat,
I too get that clunking noise from time to time on my 03. I have found here on the forum to lube the driveline yokes and u joints to solve the problem. while you're under there wouldn't hurt to lube the rest of the fittings.

 

Sounds like some good places to start. 80,000 is a little early for Diff Problems. Plus Grease, and U-joints are alot cheaper....

 

I have a 03 4Runner with 65K on it and it clunked when I would stop or start moving. I had it into the toyotadealer about 5 times and they kept saying that it needed to be greased more so the driveshaft would slide over the slip yoke easier. It never really helped, I still felt it and it was annoying. The last time I took it to them, I told them to fix it this time or I wanted to talk with a toyota rep. They called someone at toyota corporation andthey told them to remove the grease fitting on the slip yoke (or drive shaft...not sure which one) and that opened a hole that allows the air pressure to be released when the driveshaft slides over the slip yoke.They did it and I haven't felt the clunk.

The one thing I can say is if it bothers you to have the clunk, make the dealer fix it and don't let them tell you there is nothing they can do, because mine seems to be fixed and it's a lot nicer driving it knowing that I won't feel that stupid clunk everytime I come to a stop.