Companion Flange Replacement Help

[redbeard7]

So, I ran over something on the interstate last week, and have had a wicked vibration since then. I looked and looked, but couldn't see anything wrong. Today, I looked, and the driveshaft was at the right spot, and I saw that a chunk of the companion flange at the front end of the rear diff is missing. I don't know if this is something that can be replaced or not. Hopefully something I could do myself with a little bit of help here. I don't know if I would need any special tools or not. Here is a pic. Thanks for any help that I could get.

Joe

 

[hunterdan]

It can be replaced, but not sure if just the flange can be replaced or not. I imagine it can be. I would avoid driving until fixed as it could cause some serious issues if you lose any of those bolts.

Dan

 

[JDraper]

Yes, it can be easily replaced. If you disconnect the driveshaft, there is a center bolt that holds the flange to the output shaft on the transfer case. It helps to have an impact wrench to remove/install it.

 

[redbeard7]

Thanks, I just took another look at it, and saw that there is just a bolt. Now I just have to find a new one. I can't seem to find one on PepBoys or Autozone. I guess it's time to call the dealer parts dept.

Joe

 

[TooManyTrucks]

Try your local salvage yard before the dealer...common axle...big savings I am sure...

 

[JDraper]

Or go to the local boneyard to get one.

 

[pricetag2]

You might want to think about a pinion seal repalcement while you have the flange out. I just replaced mine at 150K miles.