Drivetrain pre stripdown checks - advice appreciated

[Toodlepip]

After a few months of other things getting in the way, I'm finally getting around to stripping down my sj410 pre restoration. It's driveable, though only for short distances on private land as it's not roadworthy, so I'm limited as to what checks I can do. I'd like mainly to check out the transfer box, differentials, suspension play, etc. Basically everything connected to the chassis. What I'm asking is, is there anything in particular I should be listening for? Can I set it up on blocks to check out 2wd and 4wd is working ok or will I damage components? I'm new to 4wd ownership so any and all advice gratefully received. Thanks.

[timwilks13]

Drive train should be relatively sound free, except for squeaks from the spring and shock bushes. You can check the 4WD by jacking one front and one rear wheel, put it in 4WD and gear box in neutral, if you spin one the other should spin also.

Depending when oils were last changed no harm in draining t-box and diffs and putting fresh fluid in. Always remove filler plug before drain plug!! Might be a good idea to pull off all 3 propshafts and check condition of the UJ's, can't tell if they're any good when still fitted to the vehicle.

Then give all the spring bushes a good visual check, if they're old the rubber can perish and crack. Probably a lot more you can check but thats where I would start.

[Toodlepip]

Thanks, much appreciate your advice. I intend to change all fluids and give the suspension a full going over, change shocks, etc. Is there any way of checking if the leaf springs are worn 'beyond limits'? Wondering if it might be worthwhile while I have it all stripped down, body off the chassis. Ps, your quote at the bottom of your message page is one of my all time favourites!

[timwilks13]

The leaf springs will simply change shape if they're too bad, as long as they still have some curve to them they're probably ok, if they're sitting flat or bending beyond flat then there is a problem. If they still look good it's not a bad idea to pull them apart and use some teflon tape (I think that's the stuff?) on the ends to help them slide over each other properly.

[Toodlepip]

I was thinking along those lines, thanks for reinforcing it. It's sat on uneven ground at the moment, so it's hard to tell. When I get it into the workshop on level ground I'll have a much better idea of where I'm at. I've undertaken projects and restorations before, just never on a 4x4, so your advice has been highly valuable. Many thanks.