Ford: 1988 Ford Ranger XLT, 2.9// the flexable joint on drive shaft, ford ranger xlt, drive shaft

Question
I cannot find the flexable joint for the drive shaft on my truck. The flexable joint is the one that connects the drive shaft to the transmission. Can I take this drive shaft to a shop, and have them put a regular u-joint on the end. Doing away with the old system altogether? If I can, how do I do this, and what parts should I get?

Answer
John,  I am guessing that you are talking about the driveshaft knuckle, and not a regular u-joint.  Where there is a will there is a way.  However, the driveline of your truck was built and balanced to perform a certain way.  You could try taking your truck to a shop, but they would probably want to put the right parts back on the truck.  I would suggest trying to find a salvage yard with the joint still on it. If yours is not broke (assuming you still have it) then you might just try cleaning and oiling it.  The knuckle tends to freeze up, but you can get it flexible again.  You can visit your local O'Reilly's or AutoZone.  I would suggest O'Reilly's because you are more likely to get someone who knows what they are doing.  Ask them about their salvaged parts.  It is a company called Autodrive.  I can't be sure, but I believe that they offer the driveshaft knuckle.  However, you would probably get it cheaper by going to a salvage yard on your own.  If you put a different setup on your truck, you are likely to throw u-joints every other day.  That is if you don't balance the shaft and driveline.  Many of my racing buddies change the driveshafts and yolks.  But they go through u-joints for months until they get it right.  Your best bet, if you are dead set on changing the driveline, is to find a shop that deals in off-road setups, or someone that deals in cash.  Like I said, a regular shop will not want to take responsibility for the driveshaft.  I hope this helps you make a decision.  Good luck,   Jason