Hey everyone,

I've got an '86 4Runner with the 22RE and auto. I thought I'd be do some preventative maintenance and change out the original U-joints (the caps weren't holding grease, although otherwise, they were still pretty well ok).

Anyways, I had an extremely tough time getting the originals out, and installed OEM U-joints in its place (these are for the rear driveshaft). One of the new u-joints are installed fine, and is feeling quite a bit smoother than what was in its place (to be expected!). The other is smooth and flexible in one direction, and the other is very stiff. On that side of the cross, a little bit of a gold coloured piece is visible between one of the caps and the cross, and the caps aren't able to seat all the way (I am not able to install the c-clips). I'm trying to bang the caps off to inspect the inside of the joint, but can't either, so I'm going to take the whole driveshaft to the dealership and have them deal with it.

Anyways, I don't have to go anywhere far, maybe 5 or 10 miles at a time, and never even that fast -- since the rear driveshaft is dropped, are there any ill effects to be throwing it in 4WD and just driving it as a FWD for a few days, or do I risk damaging the transfer / front diff / etc? I wouldn't be doing any full-throttle starts, and would be easy on it.

Thanks,
Yusuf

 

if the rear driveline is disconnected, you'll be fine.

 

No problems. Apparently, the 4RUnner handles better in front-wheel drive than in rear.

 

Thanks guys!

 

Sounds like you mangled a few needle bearings. Time for another u-joint!
Next time, when installing new u-joint, check for smooth play as you press the joints into the shaft. If you feel any notchy/stiff instead of smooth, STOP!

 

X's 2

that's what it sounds like to me


my originals were a bear to get out too