[dgreen78]

While changing out my U-joints I found what looks like a crack in my rear driveshaft. Is this common?? Is this weldable or will it throw off the balance? Would I be better off getting a used replacemant? (I found one locally for $100). And how the heck does this happen??

 

[dgreen78]

Pic

 

[IMADOGMAN]

I would take it to a driveline repair specialist. They might be able to machine the old yoke out and weld in a new one.

 

[jdmartin]

I would do the same thing. It's hard to tell from the picture, but if that crack goes all the way through it could shear off the cup holding the U-joint in place if you put enough stress on the driveline. I'd take it nice and easy on take-offs until you get it looked at.

 

[honda250xtitan]

get the new "used" one for 100$. WAY cheaper then taking it to a specialist.

 

[Nissan-MasterTech]

Quite common, get the 100$ used part and install new u-joints and be done with it .

 

[TitanBlue]

A Driveline shop could make a better one. If OEM failed once, why would it not fail again?

 

[dubyam]

That part likely failed due to a balance issue. Aluminum is highly subject to metal fatigue from vibtations.

I'd argue the stock design is pretty safe, since there are several hundred thousand Titans out there and few have expressed this issue. A driveline shop is going to cut the yoke out, weld in a new one, and rebalance the assembly, and install new U-joints. If you buy the used one, take it and spend the $100-125 to have it balanced, and while you're at it, have them install some good joints in it when they're done balancing it. Then you'll be all set.