Was pulling my car trailer the other day (empty) when I got into the throttle just a little to get across the intersection, the rear yoke decided it'd had enough. So, does anyone have any suggestion on a good strong yoke? Does anyone make a yoke that uses u-bolts instead of straps? I have changed the front over to u-bolts but haven't found one for the rear. Dana 80 axle in 2000 ram 2500 L6 5 speed.

Looks like a U-bolt style was used on the 2nd generation 3500's, but not the 2500's. I think the U-joints are a 1410 series on a U-bolt style. A conversion would be possible, but probably costly.

Did you do a failure analysis to determine whether it was an instant failure, or one that was coming on slowly? The photo doesn't show all of the broken area, so it is hard to tell if there was a crack first, then a breakaway.

As far as I know, the OEM type end yoke is not problem connection.

- John

I picked this piece up from the intersection the next day. Thinking it was possibly cracked already as I don't think it would have gotten t that dirty in 1 day.

Also. I tried searching as a 3500 and still could only find the strap style for the rear axle

Had you noticed any driveline vibration or noise prior to the event? Had the driveline been removed and re-installed recently?

Was the rear u-joint still in good operating condition disregarding the damage from the end yoke failure? In other words, were the end caps lubed, not dry?

How do you use this truck? Does it do any sled pulling? burnouts? I only ask these questions just to cover anything that may generate shock loads to the drivetrain.

Personally, I would just replace the parts needed with the OEM style end yoke.

After seeing what happened with your truck, I think I will inspect the end yoke on my truck.

• - John

1 hour ago, Tractorman said:

Had you noticed any driveline vibration or noise prior to the event? Had the driveline been removed and re-installed recently?

Was the rear u-joint still in good operating condition disregarding the damage from the end yoke failure? In other words, were the end caps lubed, not dry?

How do you use this truck? Does it do any sled pulling? burnouts? I only ask these questions just to cover anything that may generate shock loads to the drivetrain.

Personally, I would just replace the parts needed with the OEM style end yoke.

After seeing what happened with your truck, I think I will inspect the end yoke on my truck.

• - John

Haven't noticed a vibration. It had been a few months since I had the the driveshaft out. I keep it greased, but that u-joint had been kinda tight since the day I installed it. I don't do pulls or burnouts. (Tires are expensive af) Only thing I really do is get on it hard, but I never drop the clutch. I had my car trailer behind me (empty) and was taking off in 2nd. Had it revved up only a little bit and had let the clutch out nicely. It was actually completely engaged when the failure occurred.

I'm hoping my driveshaft isn't ruined. Currently it is stuck in the transfer case. Hoping its just from getting kicked forward, but I fear it may have spun on the teeth. Haven't dropped the diff cover yet either as its been far too cold. But we're looking at 45º on Tuesday so I'll be under it.