So I bought my newest ranger ('06 FX4 offroad) and it came with a spicer aluminum driveshaft. I have no idea if it was put in by the previous owner or if they came as an upgrade for the FX4? Either way, the guy had it towed, and they dented the driveshaft dragging it onto the truck. Seems like a common problem, every ranger driveshaft at the junkyard I visited was dented/bent. The dent put the shaft out of balance and it vibrates. But I've spent the better part of 2 weeks scrounging around junkyards and the internet searching for an aluminum driveshaft for my ranger. I've had very little luck coming up with anything less than $500+ for a used one, which is a ludicrous price for a driveshaft in my opinion.

My Question is... Can I replace this aluminum driveshaft with the much more affordable steel driveshaft? Are there any known compatibility issues between aluminum and steel? I know it needs to be the extended cab, 126" wb, 4X4, but does it matter if it is steel or aluminum beyond that? I appreciate the help in advance.

 

Yes, they move the vehicles around a wrecking yard using a fork lift, often from the side, so.............dented or bent drive shaft, gas tank don't do well either, lol

$500 is NEW rear drive shaft price for 2006 Ranger 4x4
Wrecking yards are usually 50% of new

Any Ranger extended cab 4x4 1998 and up will have the 1 piece driveshaft, also 2002-2005 Ford Explorer Sport Trac 4×4 rear drive shaft is the same as the 1998 and up, so will work

Not sure if the 1998-2000 were steel or aluminum?
Pretty sure 2001 and up were aluminum

 

Is there a shaft shop near you?