Parts for your 2017 Ford Ranger-Driveshafts

2017 Ford Ranger driveshafts: what they do and how to look after them

Technical sources confirm driveshafts are absolutely relevant and fitted to the 2017 Ford Ranger. The Ford Workshop Manual for PX II Ranger (Driveline and Axle sections 205-00/205-01/205-02), Ford parts catalogues for the T6 platform, and the Haynes Ford Ranger & Mazda BT-50 (2011–2020) manual all detail a rear propshaft on every 4x2 and 4x4 model, plus front CV driveshafts on 4x4 variants. Many double-cab models run a two-piece rear shaft with a centre support bearing.

The driveshafts’ job is to send torque from the transmission (and transfer case on 4x4s) to the differentials. They cope with suspension travel and chassis movement, using universal joints (U-joints) or constant-velocity (CV) joints and a slip spline so the ute rides and works smoothly on and off road.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, it’s condition-based. For Aussie and Kiwi conditions—towing, corrugations, water crossings—it pays to inspect the shafts at every service (10,000–15,000 km). Check the rear propshaft’s U-joints and slip yoke for play or rust staining, the centre support bearing for noise or torn rubber, and on 4x4s, the front CV boots for splits and grease fling.

• Common signs of trouble: a clunk on take-up, shudder or vibration at 60–100 km/h under load, squeak that speeds up with road speed, or clicking on full lock (front CVs).
• If water or mud has been through the driveline, recheck sooner, grit and moisture are hard on bearings and joints.

When replacement is due, quality matters. New U-joints, centre bearing or complete shafts should match OE spec. Mark flange positions before removal to preserve balance, then refit and torque fasteners to the Ford Workshop Manual specs, using new hardware where specified. After any driveline work, a short road test is wise, recheck flange bolt torque after 100–200 km. Persistent vibration? Also inspect engine/gearbox mounts, diff pinion angle on lifted vehicles, and wheel/tyre balance.

For 4x4 Rangers, keeping CV boots intact is the cheapest insurance. A split boot quickly becomes a worn joint. Replace boots at the first sign of cracking and keep an eye on transfer case and pinion seals so fresh oil stays where it should.

• Does a 2017 4x2 Ranger have a front driveshaft?
  Only the 4x4 has front CV driveshafts. Every 2017 Ranger—4x2 and 4x4—has a rear propshaft to the back axle, but the front shafts are exclusive to four-wheel-drive models with a transfer case.
• How can someone spot a failing driveshaft or U-joint?
  Look and listen: a clunk when shifting from reverse to drive, vibration that grows with speed, or a chirp/squeak that follows road speed are classic signs. Underneath, rust-coloured dust around a U-joint cap, play at the joint, a torn centre bearing, or split CV boots point to repairs.
• Can a driveshaft be repaired, or does it need full replacement?
  Many issues are repairable—U-joints and centre bearings can be replaced, and shafts can be rebalanced by a driveline specialist. If the tube is bent or a CV joint is heavily worn, a complete replacement may be the better long-term fix.