Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Front Drive Shaft ?

[chazj]

Just noticed when I grab my front driveshaft, I can "turn" is ever sooo slightly... maybe a 16th of an inch. When the truck is in gear and it makes no difference if it's in 2WD or both 4X4 positions.

U joints seems tight with no perceivable movment separate from the driveshaft.



The rear driveshaft doesn't move at all given the same parameters.



Don't know if it's always been that way (I have No CAD) which maybe Normal or if this something that could be the beginning of a potential problem???



Any insight most appreciated.

 

[PVanderlugt]

Mine has done that for many years, doesn't seem to have hurt any. Always figured it was just all the combined "slop" from the transfer case, U joints in the drive shaft and all the gears in the differential, together with the front wheel U joints. I always figured it was normal. Hope I was right
Pete

 

[NevadaBackroader]

I am going to order my third front driveshaft tomorrow. Mine seem to fail every 100K. This time I am going to install the Spyntec locking hubs.