Well here's the story. Went to replace a bad front u joint as they only cost 11.99 or 22.99 for a lifetime from oreilys. Found that the bearing on the double u joint was bad and can't put it back on with broken needle beaings. The spring is fine though I'm just missing a couple needle bearings.

 

You can't

 

Unless you have changed the transfer case, you are immobile until you have that front shaft back in. 2001.5 through 2003 had no way to lock the center differential.

 

Well I got the u joint replaced and it drives smooth but I am concerned about the bearing in the middle of the double u joint. It had a couple broken needle bearings so it it short about 3 or 4 but much better than. Having busted u joints. Hope it hold up till I can get my new driveshaft in.

 

I would not be driving around with centering ball missing 3 or 4 needle bearings but that's just me. Why not just get a new centering ball?

 

STOP driving that today, anyone can tell you, you always replace the centering ball or be prepared to replace your tranny when that fails.

 

Thanks. I. Didn't know I could replace the center ball. I am takimg the shaft to a drveshaft place today. I just had to get it home. Thanks for the help guys.

 

I just got a set of 3 Precision #344 and a Precision #617 and they are on the way. I will re-build it next week. In the Mean time I am driving the bimmer. Love the BMW but opportunities to offroad always arise when I'm not in the Disco :-) Thanks for the info guys. I knew not to drive it but I was stranded and had to make it home. I will probably get a labor quote from a well trusted drive shaft shop tomorrow.