Axle/front u-joint problem?

[cfasting]

Hello all,

First time poster, long time lurker. Had an issue pop up on my 86 Ranger (MT/4WD) about a month ago.

Truck would be fine under load through 25-30 mph. If I went to neutral (via clutch) or let off the gas, a pretty stout front end shake would ensue (more so on the right). If I picked up the throttle, I could dampen it a good bit.

Check for ball joint play and replaced them (from the forums--by far, easiest way to remove a spindle is with a slide hammer...NAPA had the spindle tool in stock for $30.) Since I was in/under there, did the brake rotors, pads, and tie rods while I was at it. Unfortunately, still the same vibration at the same speeds and conditions.

When doing the ball joints, the front shafts' u-joints seemed a bit sloppy, so going to proceed to that next (NAPA didn't have the Spicer 5-790X's in stock). Anyone else dealt with a similar problem since I'll be tearing it back down so far? Anything else I could've overlooked here?

Thanks for your help.

Claus

 

[ecablarn]

Just some suggestions, no sure though, see if the front driveshaft u-joints have any play as well. Also look at the axle shaft when you get it apart and see if there are signs of wear on the outer shaft were it rides on the bearing inside the spindle. There is a small bearing in there supporting the shaft, it could be a little problem but not as much as you describe but check while you are in there anyway. Lastly, as I go thru the list of possiblilities the slip shaft on the passenger side deserves a look for wear and adequate grease. There all worth a look if you have it all apart. Oh welcome to TRS, by the way.