I installed a new front DS last night.. and I want to make sure its working properly... What's a quick way to tell its in correctly.. with getting in the mud and all that.. lol

 

Just drive it. Your front driveshaft spins all the time so just driving it will tell yo uif there are any vibrations and such. Plus you can get on a straight stretch of road and shift it into 4WD and go forward. Just make sure you shift it out before turning.

 

May be a dumb question, but why take it out before turning?

 

do you feel any vibrations after installing it? if so, you probably have too much caster set. if not, you're good to go.

 

On dry pavement the tires will bind while the 4WD is engaged and put alot of unnecesary strain on the drivetrain.

 

Because in 4wd your vehicle will try to turn all tires at the same speed. On dirt and other loose surfaces that is fine because there is a certain amount of "slip" for lack of a better term. On asphalt there is too much grip and can cause damage to your drivetrain because when turning there is a small speed difference between the front and rear axle.

 

That's what I was leaning towards but thanks for verifying...

 

There is no speed difference between the front and rear axles. The speed difference is between the inside and outside tires. That is what creates the binding. Even with open differentials when all four wheels have traction it will create some binding.