1997 Ranger Hesitation/Jerk at Starting/Stopping

soak12 · 08-08-2005, 12:12 PM

Hello,

I just bought a 1997 Ranger, extended cab, 4x4 auto, 4.0L V6, 20K miles! I noticed that when I bring it to a complete stop, right when it stops there's a jerk/hesitation in the back end. When I move from complete stop, the same thing happens. Local Ford dealer told me it is a drive shaft issue and there's a replacement, $500. Another mechanic told me it's due to a tight drive shaft. I do not think it is the transmission, it runs great.

I am not an expert when it comes to these problems - can anyone shed lights?

Thanks,

Shan.

*jobunn* · 08-08-2005, 12:39 PM

In my explorer that exact problem was a dry slip yoke in the rear driveshaft. Problem was solved in the driveway with some synthetic axle grease on the splines. Just remove driveshaft from rear axle, allow it to slide out from black plastic boot and liberally apply grease. That was 3 years ago and no issues since. The dealer told me the same thing about a new driveshaft.

soak12 · 08-08-2005, 02:37 PM

Thanks for your suggestion!

Sincerely, Shan.

08-08-2005, 12:12 PM	#1
soak12 Wannabe Elite Explorer Philipsburg, PA 1997 Ranger Join Date: Aug 2005 Posts: 3 Vehicle Specs (Original Poster)	1997 Ranger Hesitation/Jerk at Starting/Stopping Hello, I just bought a 1997 Ranger, extended cab, 4x4 auto, 4.0L V6, 20K miles! I noticed that when I bring it to a complete stop, right when it stops there's a jerk/hesitation in the back end. When I move from complete stop, the same thing happens. Local Ford dealer told me it is a drive shaft issue and there's a replacement, $500. Another mechanic told me it's due to a tight drive shaft. I do not think it is the transmission, it runs great. I am not an expert when it comes to these problems - can anyone shed lights? Thanks, Shan.

08-08-2005, 12:39 PM	#2
jobunn Elite Explorer Canyon Country, CA '99 Sport 4x4 Join Date: Jun 2001 Posts: 841 Vehicle Specs	In my explorer that exact problem was a dry slip yoke in the rear driveshaft. Problem was solved in the driveway with some synthetic axle grease on the splines. Just remove driveshaft from rear axle, allow it to slide out from black plastic boot and liberally apply grease. That was 3 years ago and no issues since. The dealer told me the same thing about a new driveshaft. __________________ Joe Bunning 4" Superlift and 1" TT front - 4" Superlift leaf springs rear - 33x12.5 BFG AT's - 4.10 regear - NoSlip lockers - ECU flasher - BW1354 manual tcaseWheelin' Pics

08-08-2005, 02:37 PM	#3
soak12 Wannabe Elite Explorer Philipsburg, PA 1997 Ranger Join Date: Aug 2005 Posts: 3 Vehicle Specs (Original Poster)	Thanks for your suggestion! Sincerely, Shan.