Lifted JK? This is in your future...
Posted: Tue Apr 24, 2012 3:20 pm
Well, I knew it was coming, didn't think it would be this soon. If you know JK's, you know if you lift 3" or more a new front driveshaft is in your future. The factory CV joint (xfer case side) isn't built to operate at much of an angle, plus the shaft diameter is so wide it contacts the exhaust crossover at full droop. So the first thing to happen is the boot over the slip joint contacts the exhaust crossover and melts through, letting in all kinds of dirt/mud/water. By the time I pulled the shaft, I couldn't operate the slip joint by hand.
The second thing to go is the CV joint boot. It will start slinging bits of rubber and grease which stick to the underside of the tub well before failure, followed by total boot failure, then followed by quite a healthy driveline vibration. I noticed the vibration immediately exiting the trail head after my last run on the rocks. It started at about 35 mph and got progressively worse as speed increased, had to stop and pull the shaft on the side of the road. For your viewing pleasure:
I decided to go with Tom Woods for replacement, largely due to their overwhelming popularity with members here. I've read a few stories of their excellent customer service, even one about them replacing parts outside of the warranty period. Went ahead and ordered front and rear even though the rear is still in decent shape. Replacement should be in tomorrow, until then I'll just be the baddest 2WD drive Jeep in Somerville
The second thing to go is the CV joint boot. It will start slinging bits of rubber and grease which stick to the underside of the tub well before failure, followed by total boot failure, then followed by quite a healthy driveline vibration. I noticed the vibration immediately exiting the trail head after my last run on the rocks. It started at about 35 mph and got progressively worse as speed increased, had to stop and pull the shaft on the side of the road. For your viewing pleasure:
I decided to go with Tom Woods for replacement, largely due to their overwhelming popularity with members here. I've read a few stories of their excellent customer service, even one about them replacing parts outside of the warranty period. Went ahead and ordered front and rear even though the rear is still in decent shape. Replacement should be in tomorrow, until then I'll just be the baddest 2WD drive Jeep in Somerville
