I have a 2000 4.6 AWD Expedition. I was backing into a parking spot at work and the drive shaft came out of the tailshaft on the tranny. It's still firmly attached to the rearend, so the u joints didn't let go.

The weather in the north east was way too harsh to climb under it today, but was wondering if anybody had any thoughts on what might have caused this.

The truck is not lifted and has a stock suspension.

Any ideas?

 

The u-joints didn't break, did they? How does the transmission mount look? Is the rear end still firmly attached? I have seen many times where the trailing arms rust through on the rear. This could cause the rear end to shift enough to take out the drive shaft.

 

The u-joints are intact. The trailing arms could be the issue. I didn't even give them a thought at the time, but will get under there tomorrow and check it out. Why can't anything break in the summer?

 

I hear ya there, winter sucks. Check the uppers too. I have to replace the uppers on the 2000 soon.

 

After you figure out what happened, don't forget to fill the transfer case back up with fluid.

 

Good call on the transfer case fluid. I will check it out for sure. I'm actually kind of shocked how little fluid came out.

 

You were right on the money Chris. Both of the lower arms broke off right by the axle. I'm sure glad I was in a parking lot and not on the hwy when they broke.

I guess it's time to order some parts.

Thanks for all the help guys.

Pat