Heck no that's not normal carry that thing to the dealership.

 

Don't have to tell you how bad that would be if it comes all the way apart.

 

NO ...........

 

Hmm. I can hear the dealer already....
"Sir, it looks like you have modified the front suspension. Someone has obviously worked on this (2.5" level with caster correction), and they installed the wrong strap, plus the extra stress of the lift and taller tires cause detrimental effects that were not designed for. We'll fix it for you, but you must pay us ridiculous money and we won't cover any future suspension problems either."

 

Compared to the driveshaft's I've worked on over the years, I would say that is not normal. A clearer picture would be handy. Also, has that strap ever been taken off? I see some meatier tires in the background, but normally you don't need to take the driveshaft off for a lift or level kit.


Adam

 

You get the award for worst photo of the day

 

It looks like to me the bolt on the left (as pictured) is loose.

 

Yes loose or bent.
Pull it off and pound the ends flat then install it.

 

I can assure you that the bolts are tight, and as far as i am aware have never been touched. my concern is that you can see daylight through the far edge of the strap and that only the two points are in contact. perhaps it was engineered that way but thats why i put a (crappy)photo up to get a community comparison. I've never seen a ujoint bolt with gap in it like that but i haven't owned a newer pickup either. yes, the truck does have a 2.5 readylift, so i am concerned about the dealer making a comment about it, although i do not see how 2.5 inches would cause a gap in the strap.

thx

 

Unfortunately, I think dealer will comment on your lift, saying someone else messed it up. Fortunately, it doesn't cost you anything but time to take it in and have the dealer tell you that (and maybe they won't). Also, fortunately, a new strap and bolts come as a kit and is only about $15, and it only takes you 10 minutes and one beer to replace it.
The gap is not normal, and surely should be replaced. Don't do 925 ft-lb 4x4 launches on dry pavement until it's fixed (otherwise, it's fine to drive until you can fix it)

 

Did you ever get resolution on this from dealer, mine is brand new (900 miles) and looks just like this with a noticeable gap. Can someone else take a look and see what theirs looks like?

 

Upon closer inspection of mine the clamps are definetly wrong from the factory, I can wiggle the joint caps around in the extra space, off to the dealer I go. What the heck Ford?!, this should be a recall as I assume I am not the only one and can only imagine if something went wrong with this driving down the road.

 

those straps should have the same radius as the ujoint cap. i would get that sorted out asap. especially if its the rear end

 

Front driveshaft, I would recommend everyone check theirs.