Slip yoke play

[lbzook]

Having a look at my car today, fixing up bits and pieces after the snow trip.

I had a weird noise, which I thought was coming from the front output of the transfer, but after spinning the drive shaft around by hand it seems to all be smooth and quiet. I did however notice that there is some play in the slip yoke though.

Now I'm just wondering,

Is this normal?
If not, how much play is too much?
Could this be making noise that cold be heard from the cabin?



Cheers
Leigh

[jono165]

Usually a worn slip yoke makes a clunking sound, usually most noticeable on take off. They should have mch play but do wear out. Proper maintenance is to repack the yoke with grease which usually quietens the clunk a bit too. I think the service manual shows the limits of play.

[christover1]

I had a floppy front slip joint in my Sierra.
Slop was solved by a small drive shaft spacer.
My lift had moved the spline contact a bit.
Hope it is a simple fix whatever it be.

[lbzook]

Thanks for the advice, I've just lifted my transfer case, so that's probably caused it to start engaging on a different area of the splines. I'll try to pack some more grease in and see how I go.

[christover1]

Uni joints also on a new angle now, could be upsetting it,
they can seize on one axis and appear fine from outside.
Feel unis carefully, if they burn the pinky, they stuffed.