D44 Problems. Give Me Your Input

[NateInChandler]

I have a D44 with Detroit in the front of my 76 blazer. This is the second time it has done this to me and it destroyed the shafts when it happens.

Its popping the balljoints out of their sockets and obviously then the weight of the truck rests on the axleshaft and starts tearing that up also. It happened last time on the driver side and I had to replace the knuckle and axle. this time its on the passenger side and the same damage. Heres the kicker, I just installed these matching knuckles a few monthes ago and although I did not replace the balljoints they looked to be new so I left them. Is the problem something that is notorious or is it just me??

 

[toomany]

What size tires are you running? Have a healthy motor under the hood? You may be at the limits of the axle.

 

[NateInChandler]

Its a mild 400sbc, with a 700r4 trans, 208 t-case. 4.88's with detroits and 35inch bfg all terrains on factory rally wheels.

Both times the front end was up on a ledge of some sort and traction limited. Last night was muddy and was trying to make it up a pretty intense hill that was off camber and was almost like steps.

 

[Stomis]

Setting balljoint pre load properly?

 

[NateInChandler]

I do not have the right tool to set the pre-load so i was just getting the adjuster as tight as i could with a punch.

was using these instructions
http://www.chuckschevytruckpages.com/chevy_truck_4wd_front_axle_ball_joint_replacement.html

 

[Stomis]

I dont know if its whats causing your failure but the sleeves are suppose to have a specific torque rating

 

[NateInChandler]

I guess When I put it back together ill see if i can find that tool. thanks man

 

[NateInChandler]

Found this online, maybe the ujoint was starting to take a dump and finally let go and tore up the upper balljoint like they explain here..

http://www.4x4wire.com/jeep/tech/axle/caps01/

 

[MTBLAZER89]

That could be the problem, but I'd get the torque set right on the ball joints. I made the tool after the one I bought broke. IIRC I used a 19mm socket and my grinder. Compared it to the spanner nut for the ball joint and works great!

 

[bronc3buster842001]

That could be the problem, but I'd get the torque set right on the ball joints. I made the tool after the one I bought broke. IIRC I used a 19mm socket and my grinder. Compared it to the spanner nut for the ball joint and works great!

This is what I did. Think I used a 3/4in socket.

 

[sweetk30]

napa can get you the socket .

also ebay http://motors.shop.ebay.com/i.html?...Tools&_odkw=ball+joint+adjuster&_osacat=34998