Front driveshaft fails- what to do?

[MileHigh]

We have plenty of threads about the how and why and alternatives for a failed front driveshaft, but I wanted a to know WHAT to do if I’m on the highway or off-road especially. I’d like to restrict this thread to that, so there is a resource that is easy to navigate.

What are the first signs of failure?
If it fails on-road, Ineos warranty coverage road-side service will came and tow(?) it to the nearest dealer, correct?
If you are Offroad, I assume that road-side service won’t come?
What can I do to get my vehicle moving again? What tools do I need?
Any insights and hacks to deal with a failed drive shaft.

 

[Dokatd]

First sign of most failures is of course a torn boot. Second is a new harmonic. Then Fire!!! .

Offroad I wouldn't be concerned with a torn boot. You are going to slow and the joint won't get overly hot. I might not even be worried about a melted boot flange so long as the shaft seems free to move.

Tools will depend on which bolts you have on your shaft. If you change to the Terra joint you likely have their bolts that use a different bit. I can recall what bit the stock bolts require, maybe a T45? The Terra bolts use a hex. A decent length extension 6-12" and a 3/8 ratchet will do it. You will have to rotate the shaft to get to all the bolts for removal.

Assuming a complete failure, a spare joint is not necessary unless you plan to continue off-road operations. You can drive for a fair bit without the front shaft assuming you lock your center diff. And I bet you can get down most trails without the front shaft if you lock the rear locker at times.

It's really not a big deal on or offroad assuming you are a fairly mobile person with the few but correct tools in hand. Only caveat to this is if you manage to break a bolt which seems relatively uncommon so far but not impossible by any means.