AWD Vibration Question

[1qik4]

I have a 1997 Explorer, 5.0L, AWD. I just got it and the previous owner said that the front u-joint was gone. When driving, between 40-50 km or 25-30 mph, there is a very good vibration coming from under the truck. You can feel it in the steering wheel as well.

I replaced the front u-joint, and nothing...... Still there. Is there a chance that the front drive shaft could be warped??

Any suggestions out there. Any info is appreciated, thanks.

 

[Cobraguy]

Vibrations can be a nightmare to diagnose. They can be drivelines, torque converters, tires, brake rotors, and my all time favorite, a planetary inside the trans. And that's just the start. You need to determine the frequency and go from there. I've never tried...but will the AWD move with the front driveline removed?

 

[ericautopart]

The AWD won't move w/o the drive shaft. The CV head is packed with bearings. That will likley be the cause of the vibration if it's not the ujoint.

 

[IAmTodd]

The AWD won't move w/o the drive shaft. The CV head is packed with bearings. That will likley be the cause of the vibration if it's not the ujoint.

Quite the opposite, the truck will roll by itself without the shaft in place. It will still drive as normal.

More than likely it is the driveshaft that has gone bad. Its quite common. I'd pull it and see if it disappears. 6 bolts at the transfercase end, 4 at the axle. Make sure to use the parking break as it will roll even in park.

If that doesn't remedy the issue I'd make sure the tires are balanced.

 

[ericautopart]

Interesting, first time I've heard that. My customers have told me that the truck won't go anywhere w/o it like a Land Rover Discovery...