Front Drive Axle

[nohitter64]

Hey gang, I just had the rear drive shaft u-joints replaced and my mechanic advised replacing the front drive shaft. Any advice or recommendations on brand? I see Rock Auto has some options.

Any advice on how I can make sure I order the right size? I'm seeing different lengths.

 

[jeepop]

Consensus around here is to rebuild the back cv - https://www.driveshaftparts.com/ME807

Drive Shaft Parts also sells the full axle, and has tips on measuring it.

 

[lfhoward]

Yup, rear CV as stated. Under $40 for the kit. The CV wears out periodically and needs replacing. I have done mine twice now in 215k miles.

 

[nohitter64]

Consensus around here is to rebuild the back cv - https://www.driveshaftparts.com/ME807

Drive Shaft Parts also sells the full axle, and has tips on measuring it.

Am I seeing that correctly, $32 for the kit? So I don't need to replace the whole shaft.. that's great news.

 

[nohitter64]

Thanks! I'm sure I'll have more questions as I get into it.

 

[JeepJeepster]

Those little boots degrade/crack and let the grease out. I replaced the boot before the grease was compromised. No issues with the joint itself in 140kmiles.

 

[duderz7]

Thanks! I'm sure I'll have more questions as I get into it.

Pretty easy job really, just messy. There's videos online to be found. Only special tool is snap ring pliers, which can be obtained cheap at the Harbor Freight.

 

[uss2defiant]

the trickiest part is getting the shaft out.

 

[JeepJeepster]

Ive heard its harder depending on the year. I guess they changed the routing of the exhaust? Maybe its if you have a 45rfe?

Either way, I was able to push the driveshift up and above the tcase then drop the front of the shaft out.

 

[lfhoward]

In the KK you need to remove an oxygen sensor from the exhaust to get the front driveshaft out… that’s not a fun job if it’s seized.

 

[uss2defiant]

there are some YT vids online. 1aauto comes to mind.
Certainly easier with the ones the 45rfe