97 ranger drive shaft balanger came loose?

[ncsdaonex]

So i have a 97 ranger reg cab 5 speed 2.3l. And been hearing this noise for a week and finally realized the metal piece on the driveshaft thats molded to it wiith rubber deterated and was sliding around on the drive shaft bangin into my tranny. So I took the piece off and reinstalled the driveshaft with out it. Is this ok, what is the purpose of this piece and is it needed cause most driveshafts ive seen dont have this.

 

[doorgunner]

sometimes they're used as "vibration absorbers/dampeners".......

 

[adsm08]

Yeah, it's just a damper. Run without it for a bit, if you don't notice a vibration, don't worry. If you do, get the shaft balanced.

 

[OilPatch197]

It's not only a truck, but a FORD TRUCK.

Drive it until you see the drive shaft in the read view mirror.

 

[doorgunner]

It's not only a truck, but a FORD TRUCK.

Drive it until you see the drive shaft in the read view mirror.

i needed that!!!