95 Ranger 4x4 problem

[TimRay]

I recently got home after using my 4-Hi and noticed that the left autolocking hub had desentigrated. Half of it was missing. I went ahead and replaced the auto hub, but the 4x4 wouldn't engage. Tonight I finally got around to pulling the passenger wheel off only to find that the right hub was broke off at the bolt flange. I engaged the 4-hi switch and the front driveshaft engaged. I then put it back to 2-hi and spun the driveshaft by hand. I noticed that both the left and right drive-axles do not spin while spinning the front drive shaft. This leads me to belive that the Dana 35 IFS differential is toast! Am I wrong in thinking that when the drive shaft turns that the axle should turn also??? Right now I am thinking something in the differential let loose. Please help ASAP!!!

 

[RangerX]

Possibly, the diff is toast. Also possible it's just the nature of an open diff. It's unclear to me from your post, if the tires were on the ground or not, and if you had already put on one good hub, or not.

Welcome to the forum.

 

[TimRay]

This is my first rebuild of a front diff. I admit I do not know much about an open diff.
The tires were on the ground the first time I spun the front driveshaft by hand, but not on the ground when I spun the front driveshaft after I had jacked up the front and removed both tires. Niether axle would turned.
I had replaced the left auto hub about a week ago because it was destroyed. I didn't bother looking at the right side. When I decided to finally pull the wheels off to find out what was wrong, I noticed the right auto hub was broke also.
right now, I just got the left and right axle removed and trying to remove the front driveshaft (having problems getting a 3/8" wrench on the 4 retaining bolts. Cant get socket on it either) I really appreciate any advice!

 

[RangerX]

Tim, did you get the diff off?

 

[TimRay]

Front Diff removal

Yes, I got the front diff off. I have been searching local parts stores for bearing and seal kits. I am actually debating on going to a different carrier for the diff. instead of the open carrier that is currently in there. Is there such thing as an in-expensive locker for the Dana 35?

By the way...those 4 bolts on the front of the front driveshaft...have a torx inset on them...

 

[RangerX]

How much is 'inexpsnsive'? A cheap lunchbox style locker is under $300. About the same for a limited slip.