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Clayton Lift Installed…Vibrations?

Stan H

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Without the FAD that front driveshaft is gonna turn ..there was be the cause of some vibrations. Had this very same conversation a couple weeks back and mentioned this and was summarily dismissed guy said I was being negative . I have no idea what was negative about it .. but He said this and that about angles and told me I had no idea what I was talking about .. okay . I hit the ignore button and went on my way.
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Clayton Off Road

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Hey guys, this is something we are looking into at the moment, but yes any JT that comes from the factory without a FAD is going to need to replace the front driveshaft in order to prevent issues!
 
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Hey guys, this is something we are looking into at the moment, but yes any JT that comes from the factory without a FAD is going to need to replace the front driveshaft in order to prevent issues!
So, it appears my Gladiator does not have the FAD. In addition, the angle between the transfer case and the front drive shaft appears to be really steep. Not binding, but about a small fingers width away from touching the edge of the silver ring on the output of the tc.

So, I need a new driveshaft? I’m not debating the need, but how would that resolve the issue? And what driveshaft would I need to purchase?
 

Stan H

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So, it appears my Gladiator does not have the FAD. In addition, the angle between the transfer case and the front drive shaft appears to be really steep. Not binding, but about a small fingers width away from touching the edge of the silver ring on the output of the tc.

So, I need a new driveshaft? I’m not debating the need, but how would that resolve the issue? And what driveshaft would I need to purchase?
Different style driveshaft is gonna handle different angle better. . There also should be additional remedy through the control arms .if they are adjustable type.
The other option is to install a FAD.
 

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Stan H

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Additionally.. you said angle seems to be steep.. get a angle gauge Klein, or harbor freight etc... find out what it really is.
 

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Okay, forgive my ignorance, I have a 2024 Rubicon, how do I know if i have a FAD??
 

Stan H

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Okay, forgive my ignorance, I have a 2024 Rubicon, how do I know if i have a FAD??
Look at the front axle passenger side behind the axle to the wheel side you will find it has a electric motor box and a set of wire plugged into it.
If it simply has a block off plate it does not.
If you have a 2024 it is Highly likely you do not have a FAD
 

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Interesting that Jeep decided to ditch the FAD. I wonder if they picked up some mpg somewhere else? I know that’s not really the point of this thread.
 
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Additionally.. you said angle seems to be steep.. get a angle gauge Klein, or harbor freight etc... find out what it really is.
The difference between the tc and shaft is around 16 degrees. Going to remove front shaft, take it for a drive and test it.
 

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Stan H

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I think the opposite I think they found it made no difference. And with lifts it makes a mess now for a lot of folk.
 

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So, it appears my Gladiator does not have the FAD. In addition, the angle between the transfer case and the front drive shaft appears to be really steep. Not binding, but about a small fingers width away from touching the edge of the silver ring on the output of the tc.

So, I need a new driveshaft? I’m not debating the need, but how would that resolve the issue? And what driveshaft would I need to purchase?
Yes in that case you will definitely need an upgrade, I would highly recommend giving our friends over at Adams or Tom Woods a call to see what they recommend!
 
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Okay, doesn’t apppear to be related to Fad or front drive shaft. I removed it, went for a test drive and I’m having the same issues. Next step is to mount the original tires/wheels and see if that resolves it. Vibrations continue whether under load or coasting.
 

Trail_Limo_Tim

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Okay, doesn’t apppear to be related to Fad or front drive shaft. I removed it, went for a test drive and I’m having the same issues. Next step is to mount the original tires/wheels and see if that resolves it. Vibrations continue whether under load or coasting.
Now I’m REALLY curious. Don’t ghost us when you figure it out. 😂
 
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Remounted original tires/wheels. Low speed vibration (5-10mph) resolved (maybe just aggressive tread pattern?) Vibrations reduced greatly at ~25mph. Still felt some around 50, but maybe only 70% less. Now I’m thinking it’s a combination of rear driveline issue with larger heavier tires that are slightly out of balance. Each issue amplifying the other. Could be wrong, but that’s my guess. I’ve had the tires balanced twice, but maybe ones out of round or I have a warped wheel? Time to visit a different shop and do a road force balance. Then maybe time to consider an out of balance rear drive shaft.
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