I was hearing a noise sometimes when I was in 4wd, but couldn't find it. I was checking fluids when I saw what looks like part of the joint is cracked. Is this common? Also should I be able to spin my front drive shaft with my hand if it's in 2wd? I know it is vacuum actuated, and the T-case is manual, but just not sure what disconects with the vacuum and what disconects with the shifter. Dumb question, but still trying to figure it all out. Thanks.

 

The front drive shaft will turn if the truck is in 2 wheel drive and all the wheels are on the ground. It will be a bit difficult to turn, as it also turns the differential and the unlocked axle side backwards.

The universal joints do not crack all that often on the front driveshaft. However the steering knuckle universal joints do crack with some frequency on the front axle shafts.

By the way, you cannot turn the axle shafts with the truck wheels on the ground.

If you need universal joints, do not bother going to Dodge, go to one of the DANA axle part aftermarket suppliers, and get the new super duty joints (they cost about half what Dodge charges for the cheap OEM joint).

 

Thanks for the reply. That clears it all up. I was wondering what the resistance was when I turned the drive shaft. Would anyone happen to know what type of a price range that I should expect? I guess if it broke I've gotta make it stronger! Thanks again-

 

I got Spicer greasable joints when I replaced mine.

 

Thanks I'll check them out.

 

non greaseable ujoints are actually stronger if you need the extra strength just a fyi

 

Thanks Helicopter Dan. I'll keep that in mind.

 

sure no problem

 

I'm just making sure before I go and buy the wrong part, but is the part broken on the front drive shaft the cv joint? here is a link to the pics--https://www.dieseltruckresource.com/yabbse/gallery/displayimage.php?album=445&pid=3624
-the other pics are in the CWBRONC pics folder. If anyone can make out what I'm trying to show and can tell me that'd be great. Thanks again.

 

I don't think that link works, but I hope this one will...
https://www.dieseltruckresource.com/...ex.php?page=56
If not it is page 56 of the pic folders under CWBRONC...

 

That is a cv joint,is this what is broken?? If it is then go to Dana as stated above, Goodluck Rick