97 AWD front u-joint ?

[Dan Whitaker]

I did a search bit did not find the answer I need.
I need to replace all the u-joints on my 97 AWD Mountaineer.
The thing that has me stumped is where the front drive shaft connects to the transfer case.

It is not a u-joint or cardane(sp) type. It has a flange around the outside & looks to be more like a CV joint.

I have not called any parts stores yet but was looking on their web sites & did not see this listed. All I saw was a regular type u-joint for 4wd which called out one u-joint for the front shaft where it connects to the front diff but nothing listed for AWD or 4wd where it connects to the transfer case

 

[gijoecam]

Yes, it's essentially a CV joint. No, there is no u-joint on that end of the driveshaft.

AFAIK, it's a 'better design' for 97 that disappeared in 98.

 

[Dan Whitaker]

So is the CV one replacable or do I just replace the three standard u-joints?

 

[IZwack]

AFAIK, it's a 'better design' for 97 that disappeared in 98.

The 98's have the same front driveshaft - I put a 98' front driveshaft (mine) in a '97 (my brother's).

So is the CV one replacable or do I just replace the three standard u-joints?

The CV is not replaceable

 

['97 V8]

i could sell you my double carden for 50 bucks

 

[Dan Whitaker]

Thank You IZWACK.

So does the CV end have a splined shaft that I just slide out or do I have to remove the flange from the T-case?

 

[IZwack]

So does the CV end have a splined shaft that I just slide out or do I have to remove the flange from the T-case?

the CV end of the front driveshaft (the end thats closest to the trasnfer case) is bolted to the transfer case's front output flange/"cup" by I think 9 or so small but very long bolts. just unscrew these bolts and the CV end should pull out (it may require a little tug).

 

[Dan Whitaker]

Thank You again IZWACK.

I think 9 or so small but very long bolts.

That's what air ratchets are for

 

[Jeeps&Fords]

I am going through that with mine right now. A driveshaft shop could not even rebuild the stock unit. They would have to make me a custom unit to replace it, and that was more expensive than buying a shaft through Napa.