driveshaft question..

[hundo]

I have a 83 diesel ranger with a 4 speed stick.. replacing the u joints when I noticed I have a little play ( not back and forth) where the splined shaft mates with the tail end of the transmission.. is this normal?? If not what could cause this? Getting a occasional clunking when I shift from 2nd to 3rd.

 

[adsm08]

In and out play is normal and needed to you don't break something when the rear end flexes upward.

 

[hundo]

Well not in and out play, up and down play..

 

[Mark_88]

The clunking is probably from worn U-joints...(did you replace both?) and you may not notice it at other speeds depending on shift patterns...like pedal release apply or whatever due to the up and over movement...every other shift is straight down...less involved...

Otherwise, it could be the transmission itself...something worn internally. Check the fluid level and top it up as needed...see if that takes the sound away...lack of fluid has been known to make things go clunk in the night.

EDIT: Just noticed the up and down movement part...a bit is normal like oldyellr said below...watch for fluid leaks for sure...do you have a two piece shaft or one piece?

 

[oldyellr]

A little up and down play is okay unless you're also getting an objectionable oil leak. Replacing the seal will stop the leak for a while, but the ultimate fix is to replace the bushing and seal in the tailshaft.

 

[hundo]

Thanks for the help y'all..