So I have an 03 Ram 1500 4x4, I was up under the truck replacing both rear/front and diff fluids then I started on the transfer case when I saw this, can anyone shed some light on this for me? And what the part is/cost, coming off the transfer case to the drive shaft, I'm guessing it's a u joint.

 

If it's only the u-joint, it would only cost $20-30 if that. Check Rock Auto for the exact price, or call your local parts store. Should be a stock item.

 

My concern is the chipping up top, that you can see in the photo

 

Thats what I was saying. If it's just the u-joint, cheap fix. If its the drive shaft yoke itself, probably more expensive. Don't know if the whole drive shaft would need to be replaced or just the end of it. You can search local parts yards for used ones or Rock Auto for new ones, or a parts store. Don't have a clue on the price.

 

Upon closer inspection it's the u-joint that's shattered, I thought it was the drive shaft, lol, had me scared for a moment, anyone have a link to doing this replacement on your own or should I let a shop replace it?

 

You tube is an excellent resoource for do it yourself videos.

 

From the angle of the pic, the yoke looks fine, but you can inspect it when you get the u-joint off. If it's only the u-joint it's a $20 part online, $30 at the local auto parts store. It's normal to replace, it's a wear item on par with ball joints, CV axles, tie rod ends, etc. New yoke would run around $100 topps...

 

I was just under my truck changing out the diff fluids today, too. I inspected my u-joints, and all is well. The front driveshaft, itself, does have some turning play in it, though. Not sure if this is normal.

I also just helped a buddy replace a u-joint on his Ford Lightning F-150 a few weeks ago. It's not incredibly difficult. My advice to you is to start PB Blasting the snot out of that u-joint NOW. Hit it with penetrant every damn day until you change out the part or the snap rings are going to give you hell. Good luck!