Tranfer Case--How to identify 4 or 6 bolts

[96 Explorer XLT]

What am I looking for when determing if its 4 or 6 bolt flange on the transfer case ?

Its a 96 XLT AWD V8

I could see these #s on the transfer case. Its a BW4404 w/sensor

6MD
44-04-000-004

F67A-7a195-MD

 

[IZwack]

If there is a true CV joint on the front driveshaft, its a 6-bolt. If its a double cardan, then its a 4-bolt.


This is what the CV joint looks like, located at the transfer case end of the driveshaft

A double cardan looks like this:

 

[96 Explorer XLT]

Im pretty sure its a double cardan because I have 4 bolts. I'm uploading a picture in a few minutes.

 

[96 Explorer XLT]

Im pretty sure its a double cardan because I have 4 bolts. I'm uploading a picture in a few minutes.

Now if it looks like a 4 bolt, it must be a 4 bolt.

 

[IZwack]

Yeah thats a 4 bolt but I stand corrected, thats a single cardan, not a double cardan.

Which brings up a good point, why is a double cardan or a CV joint required on the Explorer's independent front suspension (IFS) if the front differential never moves.

 

[Yomie]

That looks to be a rear drive shaft, not a front

 

[96 Explorer XLT]

My bad, it was the rear. The front is also a 4 bolt--now that is probably a no brainer.

Thanks,