Bad News

[wyoman64]

Hey All,

I just took my new '69 K20 out for it's first real spin in 4WD and discovered a couple of problems and need some help figuring out what kind of costly repairs I can expect:

Problem 1: While driving in 4WD I get an intermittent bind somewhere in the front axle or hubs. It makes a really sickening "klunk" sound and it'll snap your head forward. I have Spicer hubs and it is very cold out. Could this be a hub not fully engaged?

Problem 2: While inspecting the front end I discovered that my right font spindle and hub assembly has some play in it where it attaches to the axle flange. (See the attached photo, area where there is play is indicated by the red arrow) There's probably 1/16" of slop there, what is involved in fixing this? Is the spindle/wheel bearing nut loose? Or, does the backing plate bolt to the axle flange?

Could the two problems be related?
Sorry for the dumb questions, but I'm new at this . . .any help appreciated.

[barn9]

You might get a quicker answer to this over at the 4x4 section, and change the title to something like "Front end question", or "Need help question". I'm sure someone can answer your questions. Is the binding happening while turning, or all the time?

[too much stuff]

for question 1 it kinda sounds like a bad axle joint. If you jack up the front end, engage the hubs, and turn the steering wheel all the way to one side, then spin the tire by hand. You should know right away if that is it.