Bill2

I bought a 2001 Grand laredo with a 4.0 automatic and is missing a front drive shaft so I called the guy and he said that the splines on the drive shaft was all messed up and if I wanted it i could have it. So I was wondering if there was any chance that it could be repaired or if there is something better out there that could sub for that very costly drive shaft

dave1123

Get that shaft and take it to a truck driveline shop and ask them how much it would cost to fix it. I did that with a Chevy 4X4 front shaft and they fixed me up with a rebuilt one cheaper than buying a new one.

I hope you have the 242 Selectrac t-case because if you have the 249, it's probably toast. I've heard a rumor that most 4.0s had the 242.

Bill2

How do I find out what kind I have the 242 or the 249 is there a easy way of telling. Also on a side note, they told me there was something wrong with the motor but didn't know what sounds like a pecking they said. I haven't had a chance to start it. Is all 4.0's the same block and can I switch one from a 97 to a 01 as long as I change the dist and coil packs?

Yes I know HOW COULD I BUY IT WITHOUT HEARING IT RUN !!!! Well they only wanted 500.00 for it and the body is in great shape along with the tires and interier so i thought i couldn't go wrong even if i had to put a motor in it... am i wrong or did i do ok?

Firestorm500

You did OK. It's worth more than that in parts. Get it running and driving before you worry about the front shaft.

Bill2

that's what i thought . hope i can find a motor for it think the only ones that will fit is 99 and newer, don't know if the blocks are the same or even if the heads are similar any help would be great, thanks

dave1123

Unfortunately, they changed the motor mount location in 99 so earlier blocks won't work. This is a FAQ. The easy way to tell by looking at a motor is the location of the oil filter. If it's screwed directly into the side of the block instead of into an adapter near the oil pan, it's a later block. As far as the heads go, I think they are the same. The later intake manifold flows more air and is larger as well.

They say they changed the motor mounts to fit the 4.7, which I don't understand because the 5.2 and the 5.9 fix on the old mounts. Maybe they had to set it farther back to clear the drive chain cases on the front.

On the T/case, there is a round red aluminum tag rivited to the back side of the case with the number and date of manufacture stamped on it. If you have the 2WD shift option, you have the 242. The 249 only has 4hi and 4lo. MOST 4.0s came with the 242.

ALSO, if you're thinking about swapping in the 4.7, FORGET ABOUT IT! You'd have to practically rebuild the whole car.

Bill2

Thanks for the info i will check it out when i can and let you know what i find out as far as the drive shaft goes there's only one shop around, so its there or junk yard . Prob. pony up for the reman from the machine shop.I can only hope for a good t/case and drivetrain at this point because of motor. So i'll let you know something as soon as i can thanks for the info.