I would like to see how smooth my 2004 will ride if I go to a part time transfer case set up. I did this on my 80, and it was a much improved ride. I know I need to remove the front drive shaft and lock the transfer case. The interesting part is how to stop the CV axles from spinning so I can get up on the hyway and run it up to 80 mph for a test run. I really (I mean really) don't want to tear it all down and pull the CV axles, then put it all back together just to try this out. I know I need to pull the drive plates off at each hub to free up the wheels. Does anyone have some experience and advice on how best do this job to keep wheel bearing grease from slinging everywhere? Or some other suggestions to do this with the least amount of work? Thanks
Stop Front Diff from Spinning
- Thread starter elhombre
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I did the conversion. I think it's significantly smoother on the road. Don't know if it's worth it just for that, though. I did it for the trail. If I break a CV axle, I'll have an easier time getting out.
Anyway, my first thought with regard to testing it out is, drive mine! But, I'm a ways away. There's gotta be someone closer who's done it and can give you a test drive.
No matter how you slice it, it's gonna be a lot of work just for a test drive.
Anyway, my first thought with regard to testing it out is, drive mine! But, I'm a ways away. There's gotta be someone closer who's done it and can give you a test drive.
No matter how you slice it, it's gonna be a lot of work just for a test drive.
The safest way is to get a couple of used drive flanges and machine or die grind the splines away so they bolt up tot he hub to protect the bearings, but don't engage with the shaft. Removing the half shafts would also leave the bearings exposed to road grit.
Ben3D makes some 3D printed "flanges" that are like caps that don't have splines - saved my butt when someone had them when I blew my front diff at Windrock. Kept my bearings clean on the way back off the trail.
I made my own version of them after that, but since Ben still sells his (as far as I know anyways) I don't sell them. I think he can be difficult to get a hold of though, so you may try Instagram.
- Thread starter
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Just to complete this post, I went to my scrap pile and pulled out a piece of sheet metal I had from somewhere. Probably old roof flashing. I used a drive flange as a pattern and cut a circle of sheet metal out with tin snips. Drilled out holes for the 6 flange studs and two solid dowel holes. Then used a hole drill bit for the center of the circle bigger than the CV axle shaft so it wouldn't come in contact with the shaft splines while turning. The front drive shaft was removed and the center diff was locked. Bolted one on each side and took it up to 80mph. Very little grease slung out and no road dirt got into the bearings.
