how do I replace a broken U-Joint on the front (4x4) drive shaft and put the now removed drive shaft back in -without going to a mechanic?

Asked by heavyeagle Sep 10, 2014 at 03:30 AM about the 1990 Ford Bronco Eddie Bauer 4WD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I have a 1990 full-size Eddie Bauer Bronco. This is my first 4x4. I put it in 4low and 4high one night and drove at about 3-5mph up my driveway and back,about 60 yds. had a heck of a time getting it out of low. Next day broke driveshaft (4x4) and cracked transfer case adapter. Found another cast iron adapter had mech put it in. Bought universal joint and rear trannie seal after removing driveshaft myself.Mechanic told me my driveshaft(u-joint) broke because I drove my truck in 4x4 on the pavement. Please advise me what to do. I am not a mechanic but am learning everyday what I can do myself -one of the main reasons I love older model vehicles.

1 Answer

63,145

I'm confused. The drive shaft and the U-joint are 2 different things. The U-joint hooks up to the drive shaft. Did both break? The fact that you drove in 4WD on dry pavement for such a short time should not have broken it. If you had different size tires on it could be the problem. Now if the drive shaft is bent and no good now, go to the junkyard and pull one from there. The dealer will be very expensive! Additionally, you should have the replacement drive shaft balanced.

1 people found this helpful.

Your Answer:

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    Gene Arnett
    Reputation
    860
  • #2
    Clayton Cameron
    Reputation
    320
  • #3
    Tracy Hooks
    Reputation
    220
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Jeep Wrangler
145 Great Deals out of 5,071 listings starting at $5,450
Used Ford F-150
321 Great Deals out of 14,968 listings starting at $1,712
Used Toyota 4Runner
10 Great Deals out of 304 listings starting at $9,700
Used Ford Mustang
65 Great Deals out of 1,259 listings starting at $4,995
Used Toyota Land Cruiser
98 listings starting at $33,990
Used Ford Explorer
86 Great Deals out of 2,065 listings starting at $2,999
Used Ford Ranger
18 Great Deals out of 1,529 listings starting at $2,888

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.