Clack and Shake

Hi, TW:

First post but I've read a lot of threads to help with my problem, and thank you for all your help and insight.

2010 Tacoma 4x4 67K miles. I've towed trailers up and down the East Coast, driven trailers on the beach, driven on the beach a lot, etc. etc. Also, put a lot of miles on the highway with it.

The problem is while accelerating there is a clacking sound up to 20 mph, and then the shaking begins, and it stays up to 55 mph with it being the worse btw 30-40 mph. It is shifting fine, but it feels like it has lost some power. Vibration comes from under the truck, and shakes the whole truck- steering, dash, even hood.

When I take my foot off the accelerator, the vibration disappears and is less noticeable above 55 mph.

Looks as though most diagnoses are 1.) U-Joint, 2.) Carrier Joint, or 3.) rear diff., or 4.) front wheel bearing.

There is some play in the carrier bearing. Maybe a 1/4 inch. I'm not seeing any leaks or cracks with the drive shaft assembly.

Thoughts? Thanks in advance!

 

The more I read other threads the more it sounds like I am going to replace the u-joints first. I guess I need all 3 of them and what brand should I get? Is there a difference? It is not a prerunner so should I get the ones I can grease or not grease?