2004 Tacoma Automatic Transmission - thunk/clunk when taking off or stopping

I recently bought a 2wd crew cab 2004 in excellent shape.

I didn't notice this about the transmission during test drive, but now I'm noticing it.

anyone has the link for the fix for this issue below:
Automatic Transmission - thunk/clunk when taking off or stopping

Year: 2004
Make: Tacoma
Model: Pre-Runner/ SR5 package
Engine size: 3.4 V6

Is a lift installed: No
Aftermarket components: None (Stock)
Is there an alarm system installed: No
When did you first notice the problem?: Few days ago
How often does it occur?: When taking off or stopping
What have you ALREADY replaced to try and fix it?: Nothing
Have you checked codes?: Yes, no codes

Thanks

 

Sounds like the infamous axle wrap that's plagued Tacomas throughout the years. Nothing to really worry about, it's just annoying and can be a little unnerving if you don't know what it is. I had it often in my '99 Tacoma Prerunner with the auto tranny and it felt like I was getting tapped from behind by another car sometimes.

I haven't read too much into it as I never get it anymore in my '04 with the 5 speed, but from what I remember it has to do with the leaf springs binding up and releasing tension thus you hear and feel the clunking sound that happens. If you search the forums on this site for "axle wrap" you'll see a ton of threads on it and how to help make it less noticeable; I'm not sure if anyone's ever gotten it to completely go away with OEM equipment.

 

So I'm guessing then that the transmission is fine since is not slipping or anything else. Thanks

 

Yeah it's nothing wrong with the transmission, basically it's due to weak factory leaf springs.

 

You can mitigate this by dropping the drive shaft and lubing the splines on the shaft that slips into the rear of the transmission. A good synthetic grease works well. Just don't stuff a lot of grease inside that can get trapped and cause binding as it does need to be able to slip freely when the springs load and unload during the axle wrap. I have a 2007 that has not done it in a year since I last applied grease.

 

Inspect and recheck the Tranny Fluid level,mine did this after a tranny flush at a Toyota Dealer for 2-3 months and I checked fluid level,it was down 2 qts, I added and topped off and the problem disappeared! Low Tranny Fluid main problem! 2013 Toyota Tacoma V6 A.T. DCLB.

 

Greased the splines of the end of the shaft, checked the U Joint and greased all the fittings. Also adjusted the rear brakes and checked the leap springs. Clunk/thunk is gone.

Thanks