shocks and drive shaft issues

Hello,

Just replaced shocks all around. The previous shocks' bushings were all gone.

Jeep is certainly less metal on metal clangy, but has now developed a different sound that I think is the drive shaft U-joints squealing under load only. Could the shocks have changed the geometry that much to impact the drive shaft? Any recommendations?

Took Ranchero 5000's out and put Ranchero 5000's in.

Thanx

Douglas

 

The new shocks shouldn't change suspension geometry, so long as they are correct for the vehicle and lift. It's possible that the different sound is just now more noticeable with the shocks & bushings renewed. Bad U-joints can easily be identified by lifting both wheels off the ground and twisting the driveshaft by hand. Any looseness at either joint is usually good reason for replacement. Make sure the vehicle is chocked so it can't roll.

 

springs carry the load
shocks dampen the ride
lube the u-joints and report back; might go away
but....
squeak from u-joint = no good u-joint

 

Re: David's comment: the squeak was definitely not there before the new shocks.

Definitely only squeaks when in gear under load. Coasting in gear and in neutral no squeak and the squeak immediately stops when I shift to neutral.

Will check out play this weekend.

 

So it was the rear U-joint, rear drive shaft, Thanks for everyones input,

Douglas..