Ford explorer 2000 model auto 4.0l slipping/ clunking noise coming from front end?

Does anyone know what this could be i have a 2000 model ford explorer 4.0l xlt 4x4 auto when going up hills there a sort of squealing /clunking noise coming from the front doesn't do it all the time just manily going up hills or when i use a heavy foot its not the auto slipping the revs don't change or doesn't free rev when it does it. My thoughts are that the front drive shaft is worn but could anyone help me out it also could be a belt pulley cause it sounds similar.

Does it happen all the time or only when in 4WD?

Only in the auto 4wd i haven't herd it when i put it in 4wd high or low but doesn't mean it won't do it only happens sometimes

http://autorepair.about.com/

Well you're not suppose to be using 4x4 on dry pavement. If you are then that's why you get the noise/ clunking could be a bad u-joint, axle, internal problem with the front differential, bad engine mount

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