Front end clunk

[BerndM]

Today, with the engine off, transmission in Park, and Parking Brake set,I had ONE of the front tires lifted off the ground on my 2003 5.4V8 4WD EB.
As I was checking the brake rotor for thickness, I rotated the wheel forward and backward a bit and heard a very clear clunk sound coming from underneath.
My 4WD selector was in the normal 2WD position and the other front wheel was on the ground.
Would I be safe in assuming that this clunk sound is nothing more than just the expected gear lash in the front differential and other rotating components, or should I start sweating bullets??
I'd appreciate any input from you guys.

BTW...I did the same test on the other side and got the same results.
Thanks

 

[2004XLT]

That is normal, the front 4wd hubs remain engaged whenever the engine isn't running. If you started the truck leave it in 2wd and rotated the wheel it would spin freely.

 

[BerndM]

Thanks

 

[Bedrck47]

Read the attached link It will give you a better understanding of the IWE system

http://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/8...the-iwe-system-and-then-some.html#post7322441

 

[BerndM]

Thanks. Very descriptive read.