This is just a post about a little issue I had regarding my drive shaft ujoints that might be helpful for anyone who has this problem. I have a 05 ranger fx4 lvl2 and there was what sounded like a hamster running on a squeaky wheel at low speeds(0-15mph). It turns out that the rear ujoints on the drive axle where worn out. The truck only has 34k on it but for whatever reason the grease was all dried up on the joints causing a loud squeak at low speeds which could eventually have led to them breaking...the joints were heavily scored. The end result was me only paying 30 bucks for new joints from autozone on a job the dealer wanted 300 for and only took about 1hour from start to finish. Just a FYI if anyone ever notices this sound on their rigs! If anyone has questions drop me a line I would be willing to explain more or help in way. hope this helps!! J

 

Sounds like a hollow squeel.....rear shaft ujoint at the pinion is the one that goes first all the time. I've changed out two so far. Stock front joint rear shaft still at 106k. lol You spent $30? What joint did you get!?!?? lol...I got two Spicers for $22.

 

I'm a newbie... have a Ranger '02, 4X4, 4.0L, 60K miles - all OEM and sounds like I have to replace the U-Joints, too. Driveline is Spicer.
Are these press fit?

Any attention I should give to the splined yoke at the tranny tailshaft - lube?
Thx!

 

yes they are press fit.....

 

You'll need a 1330 joint.

 

OK... replaced the u-Joints with Federal perm. lube... balanced the shaft (rear)... re-installed and vibration didn't disappear.
Still have a nag of a vibration at 35MPH, 55-60MPH and 75MPH.
Balanced new tires, rotated tires/wheels, turned & balanced brake drums.
Any ideas?

'02, XLT, 4.0, 4X4, Stock

Thanks!