HELP!!Will a 06/V8 4X4 Explorer REAR DRIVESHAFT fit a 03/V6 4X4 Explorer

[va2explorer]

I have a 06 V8 4X4 Explorer rear driveshaft with the larger u-joints. Can I use the V8 driveshaft in my 03 V6 4X4 Explorer???? The flanges are identical on both ends, and the lenght of the shafts are the same. only difference I see is the slip joints are not in the same exact place, the V6 slip joint is about 2inches closer to the transfer case end of the shaft.

 

[va2explorer]

I guess I will answer my own question. Yes, the swap will work, but it is not advisable because each drive shaft is unique to that vehicle. Basically it was balanced on the vehicle it was installed on at the factory. I am using my V8 shaft on my V6 right now. at about 75mph there is a terrible vibration.

 

[rmcknight]

Get the DS balance tested and corrected. And also the universals.

Over time they are thrown out of balance due to torque and baring wear. If you get it balanced, it will be better than new, as i don't think ford balance as well as the professional guys can.

 

[imp]

I guess I will answer my own question. Yes, the swap will work, but it is not advisable because each drive shaft is unique to that vehicle. Basically it was balanced on the vehicle it was installed on at the factory. I am using my V8 shaft on my V6 right now. at about 75mph there is a terrible vibration.

What is the mechanical condition of the replacement shaft? Is the slip-joint good and tight, or can you move the two parts sidewise in relation to one- another? Hard to imagine little or no vibration until very high speed. Are the U-joints sound? imp

 

[va2explorer]

update,I had a lot going on at one time here. the rear diff has had a whine for a good while, so over this past weekend I replaced all the bearing associated with the rear diff., and reset the gears. I had a fairly good pattern on the face, I think, first time setting up gears. I did my homework, and feel fairly confident on the rear diff. Also I had a bad wheel bearing that I replaced. As for the DS, I put new U-joints in my original DS, and I still have a vibration. The vibration is noticeable from about 30mph on up, it does get worse the faster you go, up to about 90mph then it starts to smooth out. I did notice up and down play in the slip joint, a 1/16" or so, and a little little play at the transfer case flange(no fluid leak at seal). Unless I am just feeling the play in the slip joint, I have not checked the transfer case play with the DS off. So will a bad Slip joint make a vibration, and could the rear diff. be vibrating. There is no whined and after a hard run(90-100mph) down the interstate the rear diff. temp. is around 170-180deg. norm interstate drive rear diff. temp is at 140-150deg. vibration makes me crazy.lol

 

[imp]

A wobbly slip joint will certainly cause vibration. Try putting some real stiff grease in it, so that you can't feel the play, drive it a short while, and see if there is a difference. imp

PS: Don't pack the grease so that it gets in behind the very end of the male spline, or it can "hydrostatic lock", may bust an engine mount.

 

[va2explorer]

I have double checked that slip joint, and there is defiantly play there. I'm with you on the grease, to fill the void, but I would have to bust one of the crimped style clamps that holds the rubber boot on over the slip joint.????? Are these slip joints rebuild-able???

 

[va2explorer]

Oh yeah, forgot to add, the vibration is considerably less when everything is still cold in the morning, but after 10 miles or so the vibration starts to increase.

 

[imp]

I have double checked that slip joint, and there is defiantly play there. I'm with you on the grease, to fill the void, but I would have to bust one of the crimped style clamps that holds the rubber boot on over the slip joint.????? Are these slip joints rebuild-able???

How the hell would you propose to rebuild a worn-out slip joint?

Give in, and replace the shaft with a new one! imp

 

[va2explorer]

Super glue and duct tape, how else????

 

[imp]

Super glue and duct tape, how else????

For permanent fix, the shaft tube is cut and the slip joint thrown away, a new one welded in it's place. Scary adventure for the chicken-hearted! imp