2nd Gen Driveshaft Replacement

Getting ready to replace the original driveshaft in my '08 Tacoma.

The new Toyota driveshaft part number 37100-04352 is termed an improvement over the original driveshaft(clunk/thunk). It's the split driveshaft.

Seems like a straightforward install. I have all the tools needed for the job + a friend to help.

I have never changed a driveshaft. I have a few questions please.

The new driveshaft has a dot on the universal joint flange yoke. Not sure if that means anything. Does that indicate the correct orientation for the attachment to the rear end?

Should I expect to lose some transmission fluid when removing the driveshaft from the transmission? I've seen a videos that show no loss of transmission fluid?

 

Thanks Larry but I’ve already purchased the new driveshaft. The price was ~$479 + Tx.

 

Park slightly downhill and no fluid will leak

 

I have fought the clunk/thunk for years now only to find that there was a TSB for a new and improved one. Of course I was triple the miles over warranty.

I'm am very curious what the "improvement" is. Can you tell the difference lining the old and new one up? Is there something longer/shorter/fatter/different spider joints/etc.?

Please keep us posted on if it improves the clucking. Thanks.

 

Thank you sir.

 

Would jacking up the rear end serve the same purpose?

 

I also referred to the TSB. Had a Master Toyota tech diagnosis. Mine was way out of the warranty as well.

I’m not sure what the exact improvement was. My U-joints and carrier bearing were all good.

Will update after the install.

 

Roger that.

 

New driveshaft installed. Thump/clunk GONE. Thanks to my brother from another mother for the help. Two brains are often better than one. The new one looked like the old one.
Test drove up to 75+mph with no noticeable vibration. Tracks straight.

 

I just lubed my slip yoke and that cured my thunk/clunk for now. I’ll be looking for a more permanent solution and this looks like it.

 

I’ve done that 3 times. It will last a 1000 miles or so and be back. Sorry.

 

im certain it will be back.

 

That's why I chose to replace the driveshaft.

 

Im in the same boat. I just needed a temp fix while I figure out the direction I want to go.