2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Questions about replacing U-joints!

[Farmall Hauler]

Hello to all,



After hauling some brush this weekend, my brother has noticed that his truck makes a very loud binding noise coming from the front end of the truck. It only does this in FWD. We think that it may be the U-joints going bad in his truck?



We were wondering how hard of a job this is to do ourselves? Is their any replacement brand that is better to get than another? He knows the ball joints are probably toast as well, but the wallet won't allow for those to be replaced for awhile yet. If anyone has any suggestions or ideas, they'd be very much appreciated!



Mark

 

[Jeff H]

I've never done a Dodge. I did a ford bronco with auto locking hubs. Its gotta be easier than the bronco? I have a bad U joint I have to do on the dodge. Yea ther noisey when they go bad. If ther really bad they make ticking noises going down the road up to about 45 to 50 mph. Go underneath the truck and move the U joints with your hand. Twist them also. Should be 0 play.

To check ball joints. Jack the front up. Try wiggling the wheel back and fourth. Should be 0 play! With truck back on floor. Start up truck and trun steering wheel left and right while having a 2nd guy or you, look at tie rod ends, track bar ,ball joints for play.

Some time after you get all that fixxed. Get allignment checked.

Also get ball joints and U joints you can grease. Napa and Car Quest has them around here.

 

[ewcmr2]

If it only makes the noise in 4WD I'd think it's more likely to be the U joints on the front driveshaft. The U joints at the ends of the axle are spinning all the time (just not under any strian)



The U joints on the driveshaft are relatively easy to replace, especially if you have a press. Less so if you use the c-clamp and sockets method.

Eric

 

[Farmall Hauler]

We sort of thaught it was the U-joints on the front drive shaft! Are their any U-joints that are better than others? Or is this just something that he needs to find the best deal and get them?



Thanks for the help so far, it's appreciated!



Mark

 

[Jeff H]

CarQuest sells Spicer U joints. Good stuff.

Get them with grease zerts.

Napa's are pretty good

 

[Farmall Hauler]

After talking to a friend of his tonight, he's made the decision to just go ahead and have everything replaced in the front end. The ball joints are shot as it is, and he can't justify installing parts hear and their, when it makes more sense to just have everything brand new. He's got the number of a shop that specialises in heavy truck suspention, so he's going to give them a call tomorrow! He's also gonna need some new new E-range rubbers when he's done.



Thanks to all who have given suggestions and ideas, they are very appreciated!!



Mark