I'm interested in any views on replacing U-joints in the front driveshaft, versus the driveshaft conversion offered by BP/AB. The conversion kit replaces the rubber flex coupling (as well of course new u joints).

My Disco I has only 67k miles on it. Don't feel any drivetrain vibration and flex coupling looks fine to me. So just doing the u joints to avoid much bigger problems, as I'm pretty sure the PO did not grease these much if at all.

Didn't see much (any?) mention on the forum of people having trouble with the flex coupling, and my sense is that it doesn't fail catastrophically like the u joints.

Anyway, just looking for advice on whether it is worth spending the extra ~$180 on the full conversion, or just keep it simple.

 

The D2 has the terrible "transmission killa" front drive shaft. Sealed joints on one end. You can grease yours if fittings are there. I replaced mine at 175K ish. So much fun that if I have to do it again I'll just pay for it at a driveline shop. The rubber coupling splits with age, makes a vibration, you can see the splits.

 

The conversion is for the REAR driveshaft. If you're lifted you should do both, replace the ujoints in the front driveshaft AND do the conversion in the rear. If you're not lifted you should still replace the two front ujoints and the one ujoint in the rear.

 

fishEH, thanks for pointing out the conversion is for the rear!

No lift, and no plans for that. Will stick with the u joint replacement.

 

ok I looked under mine today and do not see that rubber coupler, is it under the parking brake drum? both my drive shafts have u joints both ends

 

98's didn't have the RotoFlex.

 

You wont make a mistake to convert from Rotoflex coupler to U-joint.
I have done this a long time ago after I have lost my rear propshaft on the road due to the Rotoflex disintegrating.
Just have it balanced by professionals and you will be rid of drive train vibrations for good.

 

Hello !

Do you know where can I get the convertion kit for the rear? I want to get rid of the rubber coupling! It's getting bad every 10-15 doulsand miles ....

 

If you are going through Rotoflexes every 10-15k miles there is either something else wrong with your driveline or your truck is lifted.

Here is the conversion...
https://www.roverparts.com/Parts/9300

 

If you are still looking for a rear driveshaft with u-joints at both ends and the proper four bolt flange with it's spacer, I have them, used.
Cheers,
Paul Grant

paulgrant@mac.com