96 ram Cummins front driveshaft rubber sleeve at cardon CV

[Solar1]

OK folks, here is an issue with the front axle driveshaft "cardan" CV unit

I found that the u-joints were both in need of replacement on the front axle driveshaft near the companion flange...the center ball type bearing is needed also for the cv cardan unit.
(btw, Im changing the U-joint at the differential at the same time even though it is ok right now)

Does anyone know if the rubber "sleeve-type" piece that is attached to the driveshaft (the center ball bearing mates to it) is available as a replacement piece? if so, where?

If not, will running it without that sleeve cause premature failure of the center ball type bearing unit? (a 3/4" section of the round sleeve is missing, thereby not providing a complete seal around the center ball type bearing)
thankyou

 

[Timd32]

Yes they are available.

Local drive shaft shop might also carry them.

Example Vendor. I.had good luck with Transfer Case parts from them.

https://torqueking.com/category/slip-joint-parts-1994-2002-ram-2500-3500-front-ds/

 

[Solar1]

Hi Folks, I was able to get the part locally at a Spicer distributor. All the local auto parts stores had no listing or way to order it. It was Spicer part #2-86-418.