I have an '89 F-150 (5.0, 5 speed) which I bought new in '89.
A few weeks ago it started making a chirping sound (imagine a loud squeaky bed spring) from under the truck all of a sudden. That is, I drove it one day no sound, next time I drove it I noticed the noise as soon as I began to back up the driveway. It was very noticable for a few days, then gradually got much quieter when going forward, but is now quite loud in reverse. It makes this sound only when the clutch is released, pressing the clutch peddle in makes the noise stop immediately. And it seems to be a little louder the more load there is (like when going up a hill).
The truck still has the original factory clutch, now with over 172,000 miles. I really don't mind replacing it if that is what it needs, but the funny thing is that the clutch feels as solid as ever and is no where near slipping....
Before I just tear it apart I would rather be sure I am fixing the right thing.
Has anyone else out there experienced a problem like this? Does this sound like it could be clutch related, or maybe a u-joint or something else???
Any input greatly appreciated,,
John