2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Front Driveshaft CV Joint

[NKenny]

I have been going throug my '01 to isolate vibrations and try to get the truck a bit more stable between 45-65 mph. I feel the vibrations predominantly in the seat.



Things I noticed:

1. Retainer clips on front and rear pinion u-joints were very loose

2. Shock retainer nuts were very loose

3. All 6 transfer case bolts were hand loose

4. Ball joints have a slight gap (although they feel very secure)

5. CV joint coming from the transfer case has two very stiff points.



After replacing a front u-joint (it seemed suspect), tightening all of the points mentioned, and cleaning and lubing the CV Joint (from the outside), the truck still vibrates heavily. The vibrations are at about 5 mph higher than before.





Is the sticking CV joint likely causing the vibration? If so, what is the fix. I haven't heard of replacing that joint and I didn't see any needle hole to grease it. If that is not the likley cause, where should I look next?



As a big note, the front end is welded, so the front shaft does always turn.



Thanks in advance.

 

[NKenny]

No thoughts? Maybe I posted on the wrong board.

 

[BJMarshall]

Take the front driveshaft out and take it for a spin and see what that does. If the vibration is still there then it's not the driveshaft.

Probably should be in engine and transmission discussion, but I'm not sure.

 

[Gordon Maney]

Take the front driveshaft out and take it for a spin and see what that does. If the vibration is still there then it's not the driveshaft.

I agree, effective and simple.

 

[RDHamill]

For what it's worth I had a similar vibration in my '01.

Found it to be one dry cup on the rear driveshaft, rear ujoint. While the joint was well greased, that one cup didn't take any grease.



good luck

 

[tgordon]

Kenny, I have heard of replacing CV joints, but the ones I have dealt with have been few, far between and brace yourself for the price They have been on farm equipment and the universals are not cheap, also heard they are not fun to install



Now that I read your list of things checked I think you are on the right track. Pull the whole shaft out and you should be able to move the CV end smoothly with constant resistance. I say constante because on the pto shafts I have dealt with they can seem stiff when brand new and they are new. Yours may go out faster than most since they spin all the time.

 

[Joe Mc]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/99-D...tegoryZ33738QQihZ004QQitemZ140068841518QQrdZ1

 

[NKenny]

Very nice! I'll pull the shaft again today to check on the vibrations and then go from there. Funny how the thought never crossed my mind while the shaft was off.



I am glad there are a few days left on the ebay shaft in case I need it.



Thanks all.