Slop in rear axle

[djd99]

I've been hearing a slope/clunk sound coming from the rear end lately. Everytime I make a right or left turn, let off the gas, get on the gas I hear this sound. I thought it could be a u-joint so I lifted the rear end and checked it and it's still tight(truck has 85,000 miles) So I then checked for axle slop and both axes felt tight yet. So I decided to check pinion slop but I don't know what's acceptable when I hold the pinion and move the tire I get about 2 to 3 inches of movement. Any suggestions?

[MT-2500]

Originally Posted by djd99

I've been hearing a slope/clunk sound coming from the rear end lately. Everytime I make a right or left turn, let off the gas, get on the gas I hear this sound. I thought it could be a u-joint so I lifted the rear end and checked it and it's still tight(truck has 85,000 miles) So I then checked for axle slop and both axes felt tight yet. So I decided to check pinion slop but I don't know what's acceptable when I hold the pinion and move the tire I get about 2 to 3 inches of movement. Any suggestions?

The tire movment is normal.
Spider gear slack will give you that.
If clunking or slack is heard from rear end pull inspection plate and look it over.
Check spiders and carier bearing and antilock if you have it.
For pinion slack check ring gear back lash and pinion up and down movement.
Any other noise?

For specs and other info.http://www.differentials.com/install.html