So I'm standing under my truck while its on the lift to drill the bed for a box and I said what the hell I'll check the driveshafts while I'm at it. The rear is fine, zero movement. The front one however I can turn by hand a little less than 1/4 turn... What could be causing this? I know I already have a bad passenger side CV joint, because of some rumbles and bangs when turning, that will be replaced soon. Could that be the only culprit?

 

That isn't really all that unusual. When you add up all the slop in the front end components (gears, axle shafts, etc.), it can be close to a quarter turn at the pinion with nothing wrong. In fact, it's kind of odd for your rear shaft to have zero movement. Were you in park when you checked it? Did it maybe have some load on it?

 

Nope, unless the weight of the truck bring a quad cab but that was probably stupid answer. Just a plastic tool box in the bed, maybe 50 lbs total

 

Sorry, I wasn't very clear. I meant was the drive shaft loaded. As in, did you put it in park and then let the truck roll up against the locked transmission. If it wasn't in neutral when you checked the rear play, try it again in neutral (with the parking brake on, of course). You should have at least a little bit of play.

 

Actually, I just read your post again and I'm an idiot. I just realized your truck was on a lift. So what I'm asking you doesn't even make any sense. Still, try it in neutral. It would be strange to have no play at all.

 

No don't feel bad man thanks for the help haha. Ill check it in neutral in a few mins, because yes it was on a lit that you drive up onto ( as opposed to the type that the arms come out and under the vehicle.

 

Have play in the front is completely normal. I had to replace that shaft since the boot tore and the CV went. Even after it was brand new and replaced it moved... I don't think a 1/4 turn but probably an 1/8 anyway.