94 ranger front axle binds up

[Ryan9221]

Hi all, trying to get the 4wd going on my 94 ranger before winter hits but I'm having trouble with the driver side front axle.

When in 4x4 the driver side front axle wants to spin but binds up as seen in the video below. The passenger side axle spins fine. I tore the driver side all the way down and was able to spin the axle by hand without the spindle on. The axle will also spin with the spindle just sitting on the studs but not torqued down. The truck is pretty rusty so I wire brushed the back of the spindle and the knuckle to ensure the mating surface was flat. I also swapped the spindle with the one from the passenger side and it's still binding up. With the spindle ruled out, it seems like it's something with the axle itself. The axle doesn't appear to be bent, so could a worn U-joint be the culprit?

Appreciate any suggestions as to what might be causing the bind

https://youtube.com/shorts/nYb6SLA4T6E

 

[Uncle Gump]

So it's up on jack stands...

Transfer case in 4wd high...

Transmission in drive or in gear...

Try stopping the passenger side and see if the driver side spins.

 

[Uncle Gump]

I'm assuming the front diff is not a spool or have a locker here...

 

[Ryan9221]

Yes transfer case in 4WD high and transmission is in drive.

Stopped the passenger side like you suggested. Good news, the driver side spins. Bad news, the spindle and axle are tearing each other up. See the below video

https://youtube.com/shorts/aGMNll6KhVQ

 

[SenorNoob]

Based on the way that moves, you do have some sticky u-joints. They're moving just not like they should. Also spindle bearings should be replaced. Probably shouldn't have tried to run it without the c-clip on the end of the shaft.

 

[Ryan9221]

Thanks, I'll get some replacement parts ordered up