Why is my drive shaft moving?

[CyberNinja]

Hello everyone.

I have a 1999 4Runner V6 and have learned a bunch from coming to this forum (just replaced both of my oxygen sensors this weekend). While I was under my truck I noticed that my drive shaft showed signs of moving. This would be consistent with what I feel when I sometimes go forward/backward. It feels like the engine is moving a bit (I also feel the 4x4 stick in the cab and it sometimes shakes/moves, not sure if that is normal). So I took some photos and wanted to get your opinion. Not sure if the movement is normal or not. If anyone could offer advice I would really appreciate it.

Here is a shot of the drive shaft from the rear:

Here is a shot of the drive shaft from the front:

Lastly, I also identified a mystery part (yeah, I am a newb can you tell?) that appears broke though I could not tell if it were by design or if it were broken or if it even mattered. In any case, I took two pictures of it and was hoping that someone could help me identify the part, tell me if it is normal to be like that, and if not if it matters to get it fixed and if so how hard is it to do by myself (I replaced the oxygen sensors so I am like a full time mechanic now).

Thanks so much to everyone in advance, I really appreciate the help.

Mark

 

[Mike&Ike]

That is a slip yoke and it is designed to move in and out as the suspension articulates. Not sure about the steering shaft if it is broke but that's what it is.

EDIT:

Your steering shaft isn't broke here is a picture I found and it looks similar to the way your is so I think your good.

 

[nissanh]

steering unit is a damper to absorb vibrations, so you will not feel it. your rubber damper looks good. if it is bad you will see cracks in the rubber.

 

[DirtDawg]

I agree with the comments above. The slip yoke moves in and out when your axle moves up and down. And that is just part of your steering shaft. It is not broke, looks perfect. The picture that Mike&Ike uploaded only has the washers because the poster of the picture used them for a body lift. Hope this helps!

-DirtDawg

 

[Singtoe]

Keep in mind that those washers are dangerous. It pulls the steering plate out of the range of those steel posts. If for some reason, the rubber was to fatigue and break, he would loose his ability to steer. Maybe even crashing, burning, and dying.

Those post are there for a failsafe, they also to prevent damage from oversteering. When the rack is at the limit of its operation and stops, the steering wheel can exert enough pressure to twist the rubber isolator, the posts keep the rubber from tearing as it keeps it in the range of those slots.

The boot that you pointed at is not the cv boot but a rack and pinion boot.

 

[CyberNinja]

Thank you so much for your help. I was a bit concerned that I was looking at an expensive part. I really appreciate your quick replies and the education. Love this forum.