How much should you be able to turn the differential/driveshaft before the wheels start turning? Should it be right away or a little bit of a turn b4 you can feel the gears engage. I turn mines and i get a little bit of play before I get any movement. I also checked the pinion nut and it was not coming loose.

 

A bit of rotational play there is normal, but there shouldn't be a whole lot if your gears are set up properly and in good shape. To try to quantify it, I'm thinking maybe a couple of degrees or so of rotation is normal? (Remember 360 degrees is a full revolution.)

 

i will check tonight. I had plans on checking out the transfer case.

 

"If it aint broke don't fix it"

 

I wish that was the case. I am looking for the remainder of a vibration and noise issue I am having. Just did the U joints and it has gotten a little better.

 

You should have no vertical or horizontal play at the ends of your driveshafts (at the transfer and rear diff flanges). Check that and see if everything is tight.

 

OK here it goes. There was some play at the transfer case. The nut was loose so i tightened back to 87 lb ft. i gotta check to see if im still getting vibration at 50+ mph. Whats the worst case repair in having loose/vibration at the transfer case?

 

Depending on how long it was loose... I'd say possible bearing wear or seal damage. If it's not leaking, then you can rule out seal damage. In all probability though, you're probably OK.

 

Sounds good. I will see how it is when I hit 50 mph. I guess if I hear some noise/vibration, on will come the bearing change. I figure its a good time to change the transfer case fluid also. I will look for any flakes of metal.

 

If it is an extra cab check the hanger bearing. Also check your rubber crossmember mount. I had the same thing and it was that one side of the mount came off. The rubber gets old and peels away from the mount.

 

I have the 95 4runner. Thats a good idea. I will also look over my mounts.