i took my truck to the mechanic the other day and he told me i needed to replaxe the universal joint..the Rear one..i went to the auto parts store and was told they cant get em...so i went to the ford dealership and with my VIN NUmber..i was told they are 176.00 for the one..and that only Ford Dealerships can do the jobs..i was told 176.00 for the part and 2 to 3 hours labour...i just wanted to know if this was the truth or they are just tagging me along..any info would be great...

 

Yes, the dealership price for the part is rather expensive to say the least. Neapco makes a kit for about 80 bucks. I've down this a couple times and its a pain. The kit comes with a reamer to ream out the old staked in design. I used std ujoint and put shim washers under all 4 sides and used a 1 3/16" retainer clip. Not sure about the labor hours which does sound a little high.
Most folks just bit the bullet and have a custom made shaft like I did. Worse if you have a 2 pc design. (the center hanger brg is not servicable either if you have the 2 pc.) I reamed out the stakes with a dremel tool.
Ford got smart in mid 05 and went back to the std design. Too many rejects at the factory (for balance) that resulted in scrap. rossford....

 

Thanks Rossford..i think i will bite the bullet and take it to the dealership..i checked with my Local NAPA and UAP centres and they were only listed as a dealer item..Thanks man..Much appreciated