Every now and then, usually when I am going over a bump, I can hear a "clunking" from the back end of my "96 Taurus. I thought that maybe I blew a shock. Any ideas?

I also had weird sounds on the rear end. It almost sounded like the whole axel was just going to fall off the back of the car. I hated it. I think its just shocks and maybe bearings.

or possibly loose exhaust parts....

Worn bushings are a possibility?

Check the sway bar links on the rear stabilizer bar. There are known to break or the bushing wears out.

In addition to all the above, make sure you don't have a bunch of large, loose items in the trunk. Don't forget to verify the spare tire hold down is snug.

-Rod

Check also to ensure your muffler isn't all rusted up and bouncing around.