While doing some torque checks lastnight, I noticed this little ring on my front driveshaft that is loose. It's a flimsy metal ring that seems to serve no real purpose and it just clanking around (it may be making a tiny, tiny noise)... Anyone know what it is?

 

It is the clamp that holds the rubber drive shaft boot in place. Your boot is most likely torn or missing, I see a new drive shaft in your future. If still under warranty, try the dealer.

 

I see one in my future too, but I was hoping to wait another year! Thanks, I'll have to take a look at the boot. I'm only running a 2.5" lift w/ 33's, so I didn't anticipate any DS issues, hmm.... I doubt the dealer will help me out one bit due to the "extreme" mods

 

I have seen many like new factory shafts on Craigslist. Also try any shops close by that modify new wranglers, might get one in new condition really cheap.

 

Do you have a 2 door or 4 door?

 

4 door. I've seen a lot of good deals on factory take-offs on CL and on here, so it shouldn't be too too bad if it does indeed need replacement.

I'm a little doubtful on the shaft actually being shot though. It doesn't make noise (other than possibly a tiny, barely noticeable sound from the loose ring moving around).

I'll have a pic of the T-case end of the shaft up in a second, hopefully that'll help...

 

Here's a pic I just took. It looks like that ring just slipped off this little piece of rubber. Hopefully this helps:



Does that change the diagnosis? Wondering if I can get away with just putting a new ring on there... The boot doesn't seem to be torn up at all.

 

If the grease did not fling out, or get contaminated with dirt it should be good. I would probably add a little grease, and try re-clamping the boot.

 

I didn't notice any grease on the undercarriage, etc, but I'll take a closer look.

If there is a DS issue, is the most major risk just that the DS needs replacement? Or can a DS issue blow your tranny, etc? If there is a major risk or catastrophic loss, I'll take it to get looked at.

Thanks for the advice!

 

Replace the clamp with a new OEM one. You'll need a set of clamping pliers to clamp it tight. If you use a large screw-type clamp, it will cause a little imbalance in your shaft.