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Heavy Duty Equipment Technician Red Seal Exam Prep · Question

A tandem drive construction machine experiences a loud 'clunking' noise coming from the rear axle whenever the machine changes direction (forward to reverse or vice-versa). What component is the most likely source of this noise?

A loud 'clunking' when changing direction is a classic symptom of excessive backlash or wear in the differential spider gears and their cross shaft. As the torq

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Question: A tandem drive construction machine experiences a loud 'clunking' noise coming from the rear axle whenever the machine changes direction (forward to reverse or vice-versa). What component is the most likely source of this noise?

Answer options:

  • Worn planetary gears in the final drive
  • Spalling on the ring and pinion gear teeth ✅ Worn spider gears/cross shaft in the differential carrier
  • A broken axle shaft

Correct answer: Worn spider gears/cross shaft in the differential carrier

Explanation: A loud 'clunking' when changing direction is a classic symptom of excessive backlash or wear in the differential spider gears and their cross shaft. As the torque reverses direction, the slack in these worn components takes up, creating the metallic clunk. Worn planetary gears in the final drive would likely cause noise under constant load. Spalling on ring and pinion gears or a broken axle shaft would cause more continuous noise, grinding, or complete loss of drive.

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