Confirmed the driveshaft has some play in it. If I buy a whole shaft such as the one below, does a new carrier bearing come with it?

https://www.partsgeek.com/2fjyp86-la...f5U2P-wQ9to6S8

 

Yes, it is an integrated part of the shaft.

 

How much play? The center bearing should have play but not slop. So when you move it about the rubber support slows flex. So if you push on it, it will move. But it should not have slop, meaning that boot is torn and it more of less flops about. If you look close you can easily see the condition of the rubber too and look for rips.

 

Thanks Dakota. I just did a quick check. I didn't remove the heat shield so I couldn't really see the support or try pushing. I moved it laterally and rotationally, and it moved enough to make a little knocking noise, maybe 1/2 inch of movement. To compare I did the same thing on my '05 and it would not budge at all.

 

Well, it should budge a little. But indeed, if you move it and it even makes a noise I bet it is shot.

 

Is it GSK or GKN?

 

GKN/Hardy Spicer.

 

Is "GKN Automotive" a BS aftermarket brand, or is it the same as GKN/Hardy Spicer?

Sorry for all the questions, I just want to get it right. I appreciate your responses.

For example this: https://www.partsgeek.com/2fjyp86-la...MaAg_lEALw_wcB

versus this: https://lucky8llc.com/products/rear-...w-hardy-spicer

 

GKN is OEM. Look at the shaft you have now and your CV boots, they are stamped GKN. I mention Hardy Spicer cause they are part of the GKN driveline division for a long time now. But they brand the shafts under either name. In the end it comes down to one thing, the driveshaft build and design. Look at page three here, you can see how a true OEM shaft is make. If it does not have the small welds and pressed in U-joints, its a fake if sold under the GKN name since it seems only GKN make the OEM shafts one way.

https://landroverforums.com/forum/lr...t-96898/page3/

 

Hmmm...not enough photos to be able to tell online, and even if there were photos, who can trust that? I think I'll just roll the dice on the (cheaper) one from Parts Geek and hope that it is indeed a GKN as they state on their site. Thanks for all the help!!!