Question about Dana 35 bolt...

[warmachine5500]

I've got a 94 Ranger V6 4.0. The front axle is a Dana 35. I don't use the truck for anything but regular driving. I pretty much only use the 4WD to get through snow in the winter. No off-roading for me.. yet hehe.

There is a broken bolt in the front differential on the left side. I'm not sure exactly what the bolt is called, but I'm wondering will I severely screw something up if I run the 4WD with this broken bolt?

 

[BlackBII]

Hmm, which bolt is that's broken?

 

[Capt Jay]

Need more info. What does the bolt hold, attach to, size of the bolt? etc.
Pictures would help also.

 

[97BlackBetty]

#1

or #2

 

[metalmacguyver]

If its number 2, you definately want that bolt.


Start reading at post number 25 to see why.

http://www.therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=29214&page=2

 

[warmachine5500]

Holy crap. I'm not sure if that is the bolt. I'll definitely be looking into it though. I'll have to borrow a friends camera to get some pics on here.

I do notice a knocking sound when I turn the wheel (usually when I'm turning left it seems). Could this be the cause?

I'll get more info on that and pictures as soon as I can. Thanks.

 

[warmachine5500]

Here are some pics. Yeah, its the bolt in that second picture. The bolt is still in there, but the bottom bolt head is broken off. I can wiggle the bolt.

So since I need to fix it, where can I get one of those? Just any auto parts store? And how difficult is it to replace? I've never had to deal with anything like this before, so any info is greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

[97BlackBetty]

The easiest way to replace it will require that you remove the wheel, then using a 1 1/8 inch wrench/socket, loosen the radious arm so that you can access the top and bottom of the bolt. Those bolts holding the radious arm inplace are going to be a B*%@H!!! Make sure you have a good and long cheater bar to break them loose. Replace the bolt that is in there with a grade 8 from any hardware store. If you need the length and diameter I can get it for you.

Also when you tighten that arm back up, make sure you hunker down on those bolts, I believe 250 ft/lbs. It is a rather easy job to do, just a little time consuming.

 

[warmachine5500]

Thanks a lot.

Yeah if you can get that info I'd really appreciate it.

 

[97BlackBetty]

 

[warmachine5500]

I hope I don't do any more damage before I get the chance to replace that sucker.

Thanks a lot boss.

 

[metalmacguyver]

As long as you don't wheel or use 4x4 or beat your truck by doing brake stands, you should be ok.

 

[warmachine5500]

I don't. I actually try to be pretty gentle with it because I've got no other means of transportation right now, so it can't be my toy just yet.

Like I said I only use 4x4 to get through snow and maintain traction on icy roads, but winter is pretty much here so I just better up and do it to be safe.