Front Axle U-Joint Failing - How Long Do I Have?

[Hardtime]

Leaving on a family vacation in a few days, not towing, just there and back about 700 miles total.

With the warm weather and windows down, I noticed a whapping-whapping sound from the right side.

After inspecting, I found the right front axle u-joint has about a 1/16" play and makes the whapping sound.

Jacked up and with the wheels at full lock turn, the u-joint also makes a squeak but no binding.

Also noticed rust bleeding onto the right front wheel rim.

Obviously, it needs to be replaced, but it can't be done before our trip.

Opinions welcomed on whether I am safe to make the trip.

Thanks, friends.

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[watersupply189]

Leaving on a family vacation in a few days, not towing, just there and back about 700 miles total.

With the warm weather and windows down, I noticed a whapping-whapping sound from the right side.

After inspecting, I found the right front axle u-joint has about a 1/16" play and makes the whapping sound.

Jacked up and with the wheels at full lock turn, the u-joint also makes a squeak but no binding.

Also noticed rust bleeding onto the right front wheel rim.

Obviously, it needs to be replaced, but it can't be done before our trip.

Opinions welcomed on whether I am safe to make the trip.

Thanks, friends.

If you can hear it and feel play, in my opinion, I wouldn’t take the risk of driving 700 miles with your family in the truck.


2016 Ram Laramie 3500, G56, 6.7, CC, 4x4

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[AK Bob]

If you can hear it and feel play, in my opinion, I wouldn’t take the risk of driving 700 miles with your family in the truck.


2016 Ram Laramie 3500, G56, 6.7, CC, 4x4

Agreed, I wouldn’t risk it either.


2014 RAM 3500 (Aisin) 3.73 4X4 Limited Crew Cab Long Bed DRW. Oil Bypass Filter, Fuel Filtration Kit and 50 Gallon auxiliary fuel tank.

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[F350Cummins]

Change it.

It takes about 2 hours.

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[E-rok]

My passenger side U-Joint was shot; I heard a click click click driving along fences, etc.

Had a solid 1/16" of play in it when I checked it.

I drove it around for about 3 weeks, 1500 miles before I changed it.

It didn't blow up.

FYI the joints were like 90 bucks at the parts stores but 45 at rock auto, so I bought a pair; I will do the other side before winter.

Edit: being a year old thread I hope he changed it!

Good info regardless, I suppose.

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