It won't be. If it's not spinning it won't make noise if it's a d-shaft u-joint problem.

If you still think it's U-joint or in the CV style joint at the t-case side just remove the 8 little bolts (4 on the axle yoke, 4 on the t-case front output). If it stops then it's driveshaft related. If it doesn't, look elsewhere.

 

Usually the front drive shaft doesn't spin in 2wd. It can however. Make sure that your shift fork/collar isin't engaged. Is the differential full of fluid? Guys run them dry or with a low fluid level. Things heat up and now because of expansion, the carrier turns with the side gear, and that spins the drive shaft.

Maybe you have a bad wheel bearing?


Good luck.

 

Did you check the front axle shaft u-joints? Mine were making noises as they were both smoked. The front axles spin regardless if the truck is in 4wd or not.

 

I will check the differential fluid level tomorrow. I have an appointment to have the drivetrain checked on Thursday, I will have them check axle u-joints and wheel bearings as well. I will also see if removing the driveshaft makes the noise go away. I will post updates - thanks again!

 

UPDATE: I got my truck fixed today and here is what they found: All u-joints are good. Squeal coming from left outer axle tube seal. Cleaned, adjusted, and lubed. Fixed the problem.

 

Glad you got it figured out.

 

I have a squeal coming from my front d shaft. I can get under the truck and spin the shaft and make it squeal. I am almost positive its the u-joints. However the problem is the four bolts at the t-case that I can't get to budge. Are they reverse threaded or is there any trick to getting them off? I pb'd em and heated em and pounded on em and not a budge.

 

Normal threads, they just hang out in an icky (technical term) environment, and hang on VERY tight.

I just put the t-case in 4-lo, to lock it in place, a breaker bar that was almost too long to get a good swing..... to get 'em off. It was fun, but, it worked.

 

Did you take off the skid and tranny brace to get em with a socket or just used a wrench?

 

The easiest way to get the bolts off is to disconnect the ujoint from the diff first. This way it will swing out of the way enough to get a socket and extension on the lower bolt. Rotate the shaft and repeat. Putting it in 4wd after each rotation works as stated, but an impact works even better.