I have developed a play in my drivetrain that seems a little excessive. It makes it hard to shift smooth and you can really feel it coming on and off the throttle. (03 6speed, I cant get the signature to work). I felt my U joints and they didnt seem to have any play but could they still be whats causing my problem? maybe motor mounts? Im not too familiar with this kind of thing. Any help would be apreicated.

Thanks, Coop

 

Mine was that way for quite some time....I think most of it is just the nature of the beast. Finally had to have my 6sp rebuilt a week ago and now it is lots smoother in that aspect but still has a little "play". I agree though, it did take some easy feathering of the throttle to keep it smooth.

 

It could still be the u-joints if you just felt them by hand. Put a pry bar or a large screwdriver in front of the upper joint and watch for the play as you move the joint one direction and then the next. Trans should be in nuetral. Doing this will show you where the slack is located. If there isn't much slack it may be in the trans or clutch.

 

When I rotate the driveshaft with my hand how much play should there be. There is about a half inch in each direction now. And JHenson, how much did it cost you to have yours rebuilt if you dont mind me asking. The previous owner of my truck drove it like they stole it evidently (both U joints were bad in the front along with bearings, shocks, steering stabilizer, and track bar at only 145K miles) so i wouldnt be surprised if the problem was in the gear box. Ive never replaced U joints but im assuming its pretty simple. Is there a manufacturer that yall recommend, and do I need any special tools to replace them. I figure I should at least rule them out before I touch the tranny.



Thanks, Coop

 

The u-joints are easy. Some use Spicer joints but I just can't afford them so I use Precision joints from NAPA. Have never had a problem with them other than just the normal wear and tear. My truck was used pretty hard when it use to haul. My rebuild was just a hair shy of a grand only because the guy replaced only what was bad....input shaft support bearing and 6th gear.....everything else was fine. Most places are going to quote you about $2k and up.