85 4runner binding issue

[Infamous82]

Have been going over my new 4runner and have noticed a binding issue on the front driveshaft at the transfer case. Noticed this by spinning the shaft while under the truck, it will spin a revolution or 2 then bind. It has a 3 in. lift on it, probably just a rancho installed by the PO, but didn't figure that would be enough to cause the issue. The transfer case does have a leak that will have to address, and not sure if that is a possible cause as well. This is my first lifted vehicle and any ideas or remedies are appreciated

 

[msahr]

Got a pic? Do you mean the universal joint is binding?

 

[KLF]

Yeah, we need more. Does it feel like it's binding in the double-cardan joint? (the one right in front of the transfer case)

Assuming the transfer is in N and the front hubs are unlocked?

 

[Infamous82]

It's more like half a turn, not full. It feels like its coming from the transfer case, not the u joint. Turns about half a turn and stops, and is pretty hard to get to move by hand then will do the same thing. This is with vehicle in 2wd and hubs unlocked.

 

[Infamous82]

Didn't notice any problems driving it in 4wd during test drive

 

[msahr]

Pull the driveshaft out and see if it's the actual universal joint. If so, easy fix. Then try turning the transfer case front output, with the transfer case shifter in neutral (it won't matter what gear you have the transmission in) and see if it's fairly easy to turn. It should turn smoothly (may require a little effort, that's fine) and with no clunks, etc.

 

[KLF]

Yes, I would do the above. Try to isolate where the binding is: driveshaft, transfer, or front differential/axle.

 

[Infamous82]

I'll try to narrow it down and get back. There is a clunk with what it's doing now, just afraid it's a transfer case problem

 

[Infamous82]

Messed with it for 5 or 10 mins this morning. No clunk, turned much easier, still has a bit of a stop that is likely from the u joint next to transfer case. This is with case in 2wd, wont turn at all in N since I'm guessing the case is still in 4wd. It hasn't been driven a lot over the years so that could be some of it

 

[Infamous82]

I feel rather stupid now. The u-joint has a crack in it and is what's causing the problem. Once I can get that replaced, if it has binding what would be the best fix for the u-joint? I'm fairly new to 4wd and rwd vehicles, especially working on them

 

[pappy]

U-joint ... or double cardon joint? U-joints are easy. The DC is a royal PITA (I have been unsuccessful at repairing one).

 

[Infamous82]

It's the double cardon, luckily enough I know someone that can help with it so hopefully can get it done. I've never done anything u-joint related before so it'll be a learning experience

 

[pappy]

... so it'll be a learning experience

Ya, it will be a learning experience all right. Your vocabulary will improve significantly. In fact, you will be making up words to describe your frustration and anger.