I actually have a 1994 Mazda B4000 with 180,000 miles and posted a question about the Differential on the Mazda Forum and was told that I would have more help on the Ranger Forum. I think I might have too much play in the rear end, when I jacked up the rear end and turn one of the tires it moves about an inch before you see movement in the driveshaft. Is this normal as my other problem I have had for many year is when I come to a stop it feels like it has a little chug forward after I stop and upon resuming travel there is a slight delay and then a chug forward. The transmission was rebuilt at 125,000 but it still did this. It feels sloppy not tight like my Mom's 94Explorer . Any help appreciated as I plan on keeping this vehicle for many more years, Thanks, Charlie

 

could be you diff or your u-joints. Definitly got some slack in that drivetrain

 

That sounds about right actually. You can't really tell the whole story by turning a tire, but there is a broad test procedure that involves doing just what you did and if I recall correctly about an inch is correct.

Instead of just looking at the driveshaft, look at the other tire also. Chances are you'll see it move as well. Before the driveshaft will turn, you have to have the slack in both sides -- and that includes gear slop, spline fit slop, and ring/pinion slop -- taken up before the driveshaft turns.

I don't think you have a problem with the rear necessarily. Rebuilt or not, I think part of your problem is still the tranny.

But if you really suspect the rear, you're going to have to open it up and spec out the backlash to see if you really have something.

Bad u-joints are a possibility, but usually you'll have noise with that stuff. Get someone who knows what they're doing to look at it. We can't figure it out over the internet, lol.