Hi all,

I've done some searching through the forums but wanted to dedicate a post to try and capture some feedback on a specific nuance of the rotoflex replacement process: the centering bearing replacement. I'm chasing a minor drivetrain vibration that presents itself around 75mph and I'm thinking that the rotoflex is a likely culprit. Looking at the replacement process, I'd much prefer to just swap out the rubber piece itself rather than removing the driveshaft and popping out the centering bearing.

We're all aware that the rotoflex itself is a weak point and can fail. How often does this coincide with a centering bearing failure and how do you determine whether the bearing needs to be replaced?

Thanks!

 

Do you mean replacement with a new rubber rotoflex piece? There's no bearing involved in that process. It's exactly as you describe -- simply swap out the rubber piece. See page 47-7 in the RAVE for details.

 

Basic troubleshooting procedure is to replace only one item at a time, Otherwise you don't know what the real problem was... Go ahead and replace the rotoflex first and see if your vibration is still there or not...

 

I’m referring to the centralizing bearing, which comes in the rotoflex replacement kit. It sits in the differential end of the driveshaft and is a PITA to remove without the dedicated LR extraction tool, which you can’t buy. Most people get them out with an angle grinder and a chisel.

 

Last year I had the rear pinion seal and rotoflex done at a reputable indy LR shop, they did not change that bearing that I know of.

 

The RAVE says nothing whatsoever about replacing that bearing when you replace the rotoflex. I know that I have never replaced it when swapping one.

 

My 03 D2 had a vibration that would develop at highway speeds. Was the front driveshaft. Had an aftermarket one on there (don't remember the brand), swapped for a Tom Woods one and vibration gone.

 

Thanks for the responses, all.
My front driveshaft is only about 6 months old. When I first purchased the car, I had what a more substantial drivetrain vibration that started earlier, and it seemed to get worse at 75. After changing the front driveshaft, the bad vibration went away, and the secondary one remained - this is why I'm thinking it's the rotoflex, though I suppose it could also be unbalanced tires or maybe the front shaft was never properly balanced from Lucky8.

Since the Rotoflex is a relatively easy swap and has an unknown service history, I think it makes sense to start there before throwing $300 at a new front driveshaft.

 

First, the part in question is a bushing, not a bearing, right?

What is it's function? How would it wear out?

I understand that other bushings, mostly rubber, deteriorate and wear out (radius arms, Watts linkage, panhard rod), but this one is apparently made of steel and I don't understand from the diagrams how it could wear out.

If I were replacing the Rotoflex on my truck I would it ask myself those two questions and unless there was a clear reason to replace I'd leave it alone. But I understand I may be missing something so I look forward to hearing from others if they have more informed responses.

 

Here's the centering bearing/bushing: