My driveshaft, whats parts should I replace?

[BroncoOwner.me]

Here's a novice question from a shade-tree mechanic.

While investigating a noise in my drivetrain I noticed a lot of play in the front u-joints of the driveshaft. My question is, other than the 2 u-joints do I need to look at the yoke (or whatever its called) connecting the two u-joints? Is this a part that typically goes bad?

 

[Ourobos]

It is a PITA to replace that ball yoke in between the front two joints. I found for just a bit more than the price of all the parts, I bought a whole new shaft from JBG, about $240. Made a world of difference on smoothness of the ride too.

 

[Whoaa]

Ck this out http://www.4xshaft.com/ click on "early bronco" on the left side

In addition to the U joints wearing out, most of the time the ball & socket gets wore and creates issues/vibrations; from lack of grease and consistent maintenance over the years

You can have them rebuild your shaft, or buy the parts and do it yourself, or buy a new shaft. Make sure to view the tech page for some good educational reading

 

[Broncobowsher]

Check for excessive play in the slip yoke. If that is worn as well you are probably better off just getting a new shaft instead of rebuilding what you have.

 

[BroncoOwner.me]

So if my slip yoke seems okay and I wanted to try this myself this would be the kit I would need?

http://shop.broncograveyard.com/Dana_Spicer-Driveshaft-Repair-Kit-Dana-Spicer/productinfo/12462/

 

[BroncoOwner.me]

So if my slip yoke seems okay and I wanted to try this myself this would be the kit I would need?

http://shop.broncograveyard.com/Dana_Spicer-Driveshaft-Repair-Kit-Dana-Spicer/productinfo/12462/

I just checked the slip yoke and I cant get it to move, it seems like it's dry (no grease).

 

[Pa PITT]

.. I too say just do yourself a favor & buy the complete shaft. It'll come with a warranty . Putting that CV Joint together is a bitch. You'll most likely be so mad when your done It'll make you cuss your family. & then you'll be in trouble.
.. So buy the complete shaft.

 

[blubuckaroo]

That's the kit you'll need.

I've rebuilt shafts a number of times before the slip yoke wore out. Then it was time for a complete new shaft.

I'll rebuild next time too.

If you've got a vice, a big C-clamp, hammer, and drift, you can rebuild it.

It just takes a bit of patience.

 

[KyleQ]

I wouldn't buy that kit - the cv head should say Spicer on it and it doesn't, meaning it is a cheap reproduction part.

That one Spicer part alone is over $65 - ujoints around $12.

Cheap parts let lose and cause more damage and cost more $$$

 

[BroncoOwner.me]

Thanks for all the advice guys! This site has been extremely helpful for me! Mainly because I'd like to have my bronco drivable by this weekend I ordered the whole driveshaft from JBG

Thanks

 

[blubuckaroo]

I wouldn't buy that kit - the cv head should say Spicer on it and it doesn't, meaning it is a cheap reproduction part.

That one Spicer part alone is over $65 - ujoints around $12.

Cheap parts let lose and cause more damage and cost more $$$

Good point.
I'd still buy the Spicer parts and rebuild. That's because I have more time than money.
But I have to say, my Spicer front ring and pinion set said "made in Venezuela." I guess South America is still America.%)