The extended Cab 4×4 Rangers used a two-piece rear driveshaft through 1997. In stock form, the only problem with the 2-piece shaft is that the rubber carrier bearing bushing can fall apart and need to be replaced. A failed carrier bearing can make a knocking sound in the driveline that is consistent with driveline rotation/wheel speed. If you’ve installed a suspension lift on your vehicle, the bearing tends to wear out much quicker. Many Ranger owners that install suspension lifts on pre-1998 extended cab Rangers either lower the carrier bearing (look HERE for more information) or replace the 2-piece driveshaft with a 1-piece driveshaft from a 1998 and newer model (look HERE for more information).
Photo of 1-piece driveshaft (top) and 2-piece driveshaft with carrier bearing (bottom)
Here are the instructions if you simply need to replace the carrier bearing:
1) Remove the driveshaft from the vehicle.
2) Separate the driveshaft from the coupling shaft maintaining proper orientation.
3) Remove the nut retaining the half round yoke to the coupling shaft and remove the yoke.
4) Check the center bearing support for wear by rotating the outer area while holding the coupling shaft. If any wear or roughness is evident, replace the bearing.
5) Inspect the rubber insulator for evidence of hardness, cracking or deterioration. Replace if damaged in any way.
6) Re-install the coupling shaft yoke.
NOTE: Be sure the yoke is re-installed on the coupling shaft in the same orientation as it was originally installed. The orientation is critical so that proper driveshaft balance and U-joint phasing is maintained. Tighten the retaining nut to 100–120 ft. lbs. (135–162Nm).
7) Re-assemble the driveshaft to the coupling shaft, maintaining proper orientation.
About The Author
Jim Oaks is the founder of The Ranger Station, one of the longest-running Ford Ranger enthusiast communities on the web. He has spent over three decades owning, modifying, repairing, and driving Ford Rangers on the street, trail, and cross-country routes.
Since launching TheRangerStation.com in 1999, Jim has documented thousands of real-world Ranger builds, technical repairs, drivetrain swaps, suspension modifications, and off-road tests contributed by owners worldwide. His work has been referenced by enthusiasts, mechanics, and off-road builders looking for practical, experience-based information rather than theoretical advice.
Jim’s hands-on experience includes long-distance overland travel, trail use, drivetrain and axle upgrades, suspension tuning, and platform comparisons across multiple Ranger generations. The content published on The Ranger Station is grounded in first-hand experience and community-verified data, not marketing claims or generic specifications.