well found a new LHS that stocks all kinds of parts and spent about $70 there today.
Rebuilt the diff with the newer style outdrives (mine had the old screw in the center), rebuilt the shocks, cleaned and lubed the transmission, and adjusted the slipper (had it cranked all the way down), and pulled out the old stock BUSHINGS(!) and replaced them with bb bearings. Hobby shop guy couldn't believe that I had that old of a stampede.
One of these maintance items/upgrades fixed the clicking noise I am happy to report. I'm pretty sure it was the out drives as the holes were elongated and there was alot of play there.
Minus side: bought a 3000 Venom battery and when I started charging it the first time, it started smoking........
back tomorrow to get new rear shocks and get a decent battery!