Bad u-joint on front shaft?

[Island Moose]

I'm pretty sure this rattle I get in the BJ70 is the front shaft, either the u-joint or the splined end. Are these rebuildable or do I look for a new driveshaft? Funny it would go like this after a relatively small number of km's. I'm certain it was rarely driven in 4x4 or off-road. Maintenance looks like it has been good...oh well.

I am confident the rattle comes from this area as it goes away when I engage 4H (preseumably because the shaft is under load?), then comes back when I drop it out of 4x4 mode.

 

[lumpy70]

Go with a Toyota U-Joint. They are about $65 (Cdn) but well worth it. The after market ones are about $30, but only good for 10,000kms. How many cheap ones do you have to buy before you buy one decent one?

As for longenvity, the Toyota U-Joints should be good for...maybe 100,000 kms (can you confirm that Wayne?), but if it wasn't greased, like yours, you'll be lucky to get it around the block in 4wd.

Craig.

 

[crushers]

actually i have found the NAPA ones to be of good quality. they are about 35 bucks.
check the front spline for slop. this is common to wear. i feel it is due to the lack of use. i.e. the front gets used very infrequently in relation to the rear shaft.
just what i have found.
side note:
also if the rear center unit ends up with slop then switch the front and rear center units. for the amount you use the front drive the worn rear will last a long time...
cheers