Front axle issue

[4x4cameron]

I have a 1988 Ranger with stock axles and a lift.
This tuck has seen over 5,000 miles trail riding and slap wore out.
Problem is the front axle right near wheel where the u-Joint is has a lot of play. I can rock it up and down a few inches. My 4x4 has quit and I believe the axle shaft is not engaging with hub. The play is so bad the truck will vibrate at high speeds.
Can someone tell me how to fix this problem?

 

[Mutant Pony]

There is supposed to be a bearing on the inside of the spindle. Yours doesn't have one anymore. You will need a new axle stub now that it has been neglected that long. The bearing and seal kit is cheap though.

 

[4x4cameron]

So I need a new bearing and seal kit and the axle shaft is ok or replace that too.
How do I replace it?
Could this also cause the 4x4 to bind up when turning sharp?

 

[Mutant Pony]

You need to remove the Wheel, caliper, Rotor, Spindle, Axle. Then you will need to replace the outer axle(might as well include a u-joint). The spindle may be ruined on the inside, You may need one. If not, you need to replace the inner spindle bearing.
Yes this will cause the lock out not to work and the only reason for the axle to move up and down.

 

[4x4cameron]

You have been very helpfull.
Can you give me a guess on price if spindle is trashed and outer axle
Also would this problem cause 4x4 to bind up when turning wheel.
I mean bind so hard can hardly move truck then it made snap sound?

 

[4x4junkie]

A bad spindle needle bearing can cause it to bind like that, yes. So can a frozen u-joint.