Carrier Bearing Failure(s)

[Bear 182]

I hope someone can shed some light on what must be a simple problem. [1993 Extended Cab - 2part drive shaft Automatic / a4LD Tranny] I replaced the original Ford Carrier Bearing with an aftermarket bearing.

The first bearing (rubber insulator only) failed within a couple of days. I replaced it and it happened again. It seems the front drive shaft is thrusting backwards and ripping the rubber.

Is there a bearing that both supports the drive shaft AND prevents it from moving forward or backward? Is there a way to connect the slip yoke to the tranny shaft so it can't move back? I have another bearing, but am reluctant to install it until I know what is happening. HELP!

I am also considering a single drive shaft fix, but still want to know why these bearings keep failing. Thanx in advance.

BTW-The truck is in Central Mexico now, so your advice is doubly valued.

 

[AllanD]

Frankly I'd go to the single shaft driveshaft and put the mystery out of your mind

AD

 

[Bear 182]

I'm leaning your way AllanD. Single shaft.

Thing is...here in Mexico, the junk yards just throw all of the drive shafts in a pile. It's up to me to find the right one. Any idea of the shaft measurements length (and OD if possible)? Would the slip yoke (transmission side) be the same as the 2 part DS I have now?

I know I'm a pain in the a** newbie, but I've been scouring the Internet for days and you guys seems to be the most knowledgeable folks around.

Oh..the local "expert" in drive shafts told me that the original ford bearing will stand up to the backwards pressure of the drive train in motion. Aftermarket products won't. Of course he can't get one..but if he could, ha ha

 

[AllanD]

If you are burning up the center bearing from thrust loads my bet is that your slip yoke is binding under load.

As for the shaft measurements, I'll have to measure one for you.

As for the yoke at the T-case end being correct there are two different versions
of the shaft (discounting the Steel Vs Aluminum issue) one with the small front
yoke and one with the large.

AD

 

[Bear 182]

Thanks....so the slip yoke should exert no thrust, either forward or backward, right? Seems logical to me.

My theory (from a non-engineer POV) was that maybe the spinning of the trans. shaft was trying to throw the slip yoke off in the only direction it could...backwards, thus creating thrust aft. But, that could just be my backwards thinking.

I appreciate you taking time to measure the DS...