Clunk in Steering

[rsmith8411]

I have a 96 C3500 and it has a weird "clunk" in the power steering that only happens when I first start the vehicle moving. It does it one time and then doesn't do it again until I let the vehicle rest for at least 5 minutes. If I stop for gas, it will do it when I restart the vehicle moving or any other such time after it rests. It is definitely not a whine or a belt type noise - it's a metallic type clunking noise. Suggestions for what this could be?

[J-Ri]

Originally Posted by rsmith8411

I have a 96 C3500 and it has a weird "clunk" in the power steering that only happens when I first start the vehicle moving. It does it one time and then doesn't do it again until I let the vehicle rest for at least 5 minutes. If I stop for gas, it will do it when I restart the vehicle moving or any other such time after it rests. It is definitely not a whine or a belt type noise - it's a metallic type clunking noise. Suggestions for what this could be?

It only happens when you start moving, or when you first turn? If it only does it when you first move, try shifting between drive and reverse a few times and see if it does it then. It would probably be a loose U-joint if it is when your first start moving.

If it really is in the steering, I assume you checked the balljoints, tie rod, drag link, wheel bearings, and the gear box to make sure it's tight against the frame?