Center Support Bearing Part Number?

[HRTKD]

There is a lot of slop in the rear drivetrain of my Ranger. It was suggested to me by someone I trust and who took a quick look at it that I need to replace the center support bearing as a start. The doodad between the two sections of the rear drivershaft. I think I can do this project myself but I'm not sure what part to get.

I found the following at Rock Auto:
http://www.rockauto.com/catalog/moreinfo.php?pk=220703
http://www.rockauto.com/catalog/moreinfo.php?pk=1838412

The web site FordParts.com seems to point to a part "Drive Shaft Center Support" with part number 4831. But that same part number is also used for the 4x2 for like half the price. 4831 seems like an awfully short part number but I'm not used to dealing with Ford parts much. Is there a better web site to go to when trying to figure out a part number?

 

[ecablarn]

I would get under there and see if you can move the driveshaft near the center support bearing to see if it needs replacing first. Try it on flat ground to get a better feel, while twisting the driveshaft and pushing up and down a bit. Then check to see if the u-joints have play in them next when your under there.

Autozone listed this timken replacement for $48, Part Number: HBD206FF
not sure what rockauto costs.

http://www.autozone.com/autozone/pa...icleIdForService=139315174&_requestid=1254922

Hope this helps

 

[HRTKD]

There is movement at the center support bearing. Maybe 1/2" to 3/4" of movement. I'm not sure how much is appropriate though.

 

[ecablarn]

The rubber bearing support will degrade and crack over time, with a new one the bearing should be tight and move only slightly inside the rubber outside and metal shell (1/8" or so). What you are saying seems like alot of movement to me. Try going to a local parts store and have the guy get you this part to compare with what you seen on your truck. Its been a while since I removed mine to remember exactly though.

 

[HRTKD]

Thanks for the info. Sure wish my Ranger had your V8. Vroom, vroom!