Hey all, I have a 95 Taco 4x4 ex-cab with 235k. Recently I have been getting a noise that sounds like a vibration, possibly a grinding noise in the mid to rear driveline. It occurs in first or second just as I am shifting into gear and about 5 seconds there after the clutches is fully disengaged, but it does happen not all the time. I crawled under and gave the driveshaft some turns and it seems like the u-joints are good, there is very little play when I try to twist it. There seems to be some play in the center bearing (can lift it up from its resting position), though I am not sure how much is excessive. Also I put new leaf springs and shocks on about 6 months ago, with no noticeable movement in the rear suspension (though possible). Any ideas...??? Im at a loss, not sure if the center bearing, driveshaft, or something else.. needs replacement and if so is something else contributing to the failure besides 235k miles.
Thanks for your help in advance, William:banghead:
Also I have a slightly larger tire than stock and an inch of lift if it matters.

I believe your driveshaft has grease fittings or plugs for grease fittings. If the joints have not been frequently lubricated I would try greasing them first. The center bearing is enclosed in a rubber housing, some movement is normal. If the molded rubber looks to be in good condition the support is OK but the bearing could be bad.

Clifton

I just greased everything on the driveshaft about three months ago or about 1,100 miles. I check while underneath and everything seemed well greased and the joints seemed tight by trying to turn the driveshaft with my hands...also is there another way of examining the joints? Im just suprised there still good at 235K...also what is some movement for the center bearing. I can push the driveshaft up (where the center bearing is) about .5 to .75 of an inch....to much play??? or normal???, Thanks

The only way I know is to remove the drive-shaft and check for looseness or binding in each joint and also inspect the bearing. I'm not sure if Toyota sells drive-shaft service parts, I believe they usually replace the drive-shaft, lots of $$$$. A good four wheel drive shop or drive line specialty shop should have service parts if you need them.

Clifton

Well I pulled the driveshaft off, could not find anything that would suggest a problem, however the noise has not surfaced in two days. This is rather strange, not sure if things got better or worse??? oh well guess I will find out the hard way..:naughty: flash thanks for the help. Also has anybody done thier front end suspension (ball joints & tie rods)?? Im noticing its time to replace upper and lower joints and wondering how much time I should alot for this job, also whats the best way (ie cheap, fast, long lasting method) to add an inch to inch and a half on the rear??? thanks William

Well I pulled the driveshaft off, could not find anything that would suggest a problem, however the noise has not surfaced in two days. This is rather strange, not sure if things got better or worse??? oh well guess I will find out the hard way..:naughty:

it was probably your carrier bearing that was loose on the horseshoe collar. i take it you have a 2pc driveline? that carrier bearing where the 1st and 2nd peice meet should have no play at all and should be tightened down fairly well against the crossmember (horseshoe collar) it rests on.