Thread: Should I change the front prop shaft before big trip.

Originally Posted by Mundy

My one went at 98k km (2004 Td5 manual) and I don't tow anything. Personally, if you haven't already done so, I'd change the rear drive shaft with the rubber donut for a shaft with a cardan uni . I went through 3 donuts in 120k km, the last two being when away.

That's a lot of Donuts, were they Genuine GKN ones or aftermarket ones, After market ones are rubbish.you can bend some with your hands

You can't lube them, they are sealed.

You can keep an eye out for any "shiny" bits around the DC joint which indicates wear and the need to replace ASAP.

I agree with others about installing a heavy duty unit, but if there is no signs of wear then I would not be forking out money yet. You really can't go on age for replacing it as they all go at different times.

Mine failed at only 17,000km smashing the auto box, but then I also know someone who replaced theirs with a greasable unit and it still failed after 60,000 km. I think it has to do with lifts and how much offroad work it does.

I would just watch it and keep an eye put for wear.

I replaced my sealed unit after noticing the chirping and shiny bits after 100000kms ... and now the greasable one after 35000kms.
Standard height / standard tyres.
Going heavy duty now ... not holding my breath.
You'll know when it's on it's way out ... the strange noises will be a giveaway.

If there is no play in the joint and seals are ok then the joint isn't going to spontaneously fail.

If you are really concerned get a driveshaft specialist to check it for you. The mob I took mine to reckon spinning the shaft up to speed on the balancing machining picks up any wear issues.

Originally Posted by Roverlord off road spares

That's a lot of Donuts, were they Genuine GKN ones or aftermarket ones, After market ones are rubbish.you can bend some with your hands

First and third were genuine, second was OEM. Karcraft in Sydney offer 3 types A, B and C. First is genuine, second OEM and third cheap knockoff. I never touch the C.

old saying " if it's not broken don't fix it"" I woul take it off check for movement and or wear if OK give it a good grease and go for it, doesn't sound as though will be doing any off road and the Sunshine coast has I believe a quite reputable LR service and parts buisness not far from where you will be...

You've tempted fait now... Leave it on there, but take the spanners to get it off and take a spare... If you are keeping the vehicle, its going to need doing sooner or later!

I dont have a D2 so never bothered to check, but Ive been told that Commodore donuts fit & are stronger.

anyone know for sure ????

( well Commodore rims fit, FPR fits, so why not the donut ?)