Play in Drive Shaft

Hello ...I'm new to the forum and need some advice from knowledgeable folk.
I have a 2005 Tacoma 2 wheel drive w/ manual transmission. Just had two new tires mounted up front w/ an alignment. I'm getting a heck of a vibration while accelerating in 2nd and 3rd. My mechanic tested it and said it felt like a universal joint on the drive shaft might have loosened. I got underneath it tonight and it seems to me the only play is up where the shaft goes into the block. Does that sound like it may be the problem and is it repairable?

 

If the vibration started only after the new tires were mounted, I would blame them. They may need to be re-balanced, or are defective (out-of-round?).

Also, check the tightness of the front lug-nuts.

 

If there is play across any of the universals, you should get them replaced. Where the shaft comes out of the transmission (or transfer case if you have a 4x4), there is a universal joint that connects the shaft to the output flange. If that universal has play, it can be replaced. The u-joint should be about $20 and the labor shouldn't be terrible or just do it yourself.

 

A ball joint press' "c-clamp" is the right size to do our u-joints. Be very careful to not mangle a needle bearing as you reassemble.