thanks for the possible problem list. i will get out there in a few minutes and check into these. The previous owner had the carrier bearing replaced, but i'm hoping it's something like that or the lugnuts (I have a hard time thinking it will be lugnuts or bearings because it doesn't make noise unless in gear), and not any of the more serious (expensive/time consuming) sutuations listed. Also, since it does get more frequent the faster i go, perhaps again it will be a carrier bearing.

i sure appreciate others' experiences, and i will update for what i find while the search for the things on the list whunter gave me.

Guy