FORD TRUCK Rear Drive Shaft Wb Automatic 431-05123 172

( Brand: Ford Truck ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: F250SD ), ( Part Type: Driveshaft ), ( Genuine Oem: Yes ), ( Ipn: 431-05123 ), ( Warranty: 90 Day )

Review FORD TRUCK Rear Drive Shaft 172 Inch Wb Automatic Pickup fits F250SD 4WD 2002–2003

The **Ford 431-05123 Rear Drive Shaft** is a precision-engineered component designed exclusively for the **2002 2003 Ford F-250 Super Duty (F-250SD) with a 4.2L V8 engine, 4-wheel drive (4WD), and an automatic transmission**, ensuring seamless power transfer from the drivetrain to the rear axle. This high-performance drive shaft is built to withstand the rigorous demands of heavy-duty towing, off-road adventures, and daily hauling, delivering reliable durability and smooth operation under the most challenging conditions. Constructed from **high-strength, heat-treated steel**, the shaft features a robust **spicer joint (CV or tripod-style, depending on application)** at both ends, allowing for optimal articulation and flexibility while maintaining structural integrity. The **spline connection** at the rear axle end is precision-machined to match Ford s factory specifications, ensuring a secure and vibration-free fit that prevents slippage or premature wear. The shaft s **balanced design** minimizes noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), providing a quieter and more comfortable ride even when carrying heavy loads or navigating rough terrain. Whether you're hauling a trailer, towing a boat, or tackling off-road trails, this drive shaft is engineered to maintain peak performance, reducing the risk of catastrophic failure and extending the lifespan of your vehicle s drivetrain. Backed by Ford s quality standards, it serves as a direct replacement for the original equipment (OEM) component, ensuring compatibility with the **172-inch wheelbase (WB) configuration** and automatic transmission setup. Proper installation with the correct lubrication and torque specifications is essential to maximize its longevity and performance.

### **Pros and Cons of buying a Ford 431-05123 Rear Drive Shaft (172" Wheelbase, Automatic 4WD, F-250 Super Duty, 2002-2003)**

1. **Direct OEM Replacement** This is a genuine Ford part, ensuring a perfect fit with no modifications required. It will match the original specifications, including spline count, yoke dimensions, and mounting points.

2. **Reliability** Ford s 4.2L and 5.4L V8 engines (used in the F-250 Super Duty) are known for durability, and the drivetrain components are built to last with proper maintenance. A new rear drive shaft reduces the risk of failure from wear or damage.

3. **Improved Performance** A fresh drive shaft eliminates binding, excessive play, or internal damage that could cause vibrations, clunks, or power loss. This can restore smooth 4WD operation, especially in off-road or heavy-duty applications.

4. **Prevents Further Damage** If the existing drive shaft is cracked, bent, or worn, driving with it can damage the transfer case, axle, or other drivetrain components. Replacing it now avoids costly repairs later.

5. **Warranty Coverage** Purchasing from a reputable dealer or Ford-approved supplier may include a warranty, providing peace of mind against defects.

6. **Compatibility with Upgrades** If you plan to modify your truck (e.g., lift kits, larger tires, or performance tuning), a new drive shaft ensures compatibility without requiring adjustments.

7. **Resale Value** A well-maintained truck with original or high-quality aftermarket parts holds value better than one with neglected or damaged components.

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1. **High Cost** Genuine Ford drive shafts are expensive, often ranging between **$800 and $1,500 **, depending on the supplier and whether labor is included. Aftermarket alternatives may be cheaper but risk fitment or quality issues.

2. **Labor Intensive Installation** Replacing a rear drive shaft requires lifting the truck, disconnecting the axle, and properly aligning the yokes. This is a **multi-hour job** that may require professional help, adding to the total cost.

3. **Potential for Counterfeit Parts** If buying from an untrusted seller, there s a risk of receiving a **fake or low-quality part** that fails prematurely. Always verify the part s authenticity (e.g., check the Ford part number, serial, and purchase from authorized dealers).

4. **Limited Availability** While this part is still in production, older models may have longer lead times, especially if ordering from a distant supplier.

5. **Additional Maintenance Considerations** If the truck has other worn drivetrain components (e.g., transfer case seals, axle CV joints, or u-joints), replacing just the drive shaft won t fully address underlying issues. A full inspection may be needed.

6. **Weight** Drive shafts are heavy (typically **30-50 lbs**), so handling and installation can be physically demanding, especially for DIYers without proper tools (e.g., torque wrench, jack stands, and alignment guides).

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- **Diagnose the Issue First** Ensure the drive shaft is the actual problem. Symptoms like **clunks, vibrations, or 4WD engagement issues** may stem from the transfer case, axle, or mounts. A mechanic can confirm with a road test and inspection.

- **Compare Prices** Get quotes from multiple suppliers (e.g., **RockAuto, Ford Dealerships, eBay (verified sellers), or local junkyards**). Prices can vary significantly.

- **Check for Bundles** Some sellers offer **drive shaft kits** (including yokes, bolts, and gaskets) at a slight discount. Ensure all necessary hardware is included.

- **Labor Costs** If not DIYing, factor in shop labor (**$200 $500 ** depending on location). Some dealers include labor in their pricing.

- **Remanufactured Drive Shafts** (often cheaper but may lack OEM warranty).

- **Aftermarket Brands** (e.g., **Dana, Spicer, or Mopar**) that offer compatible replacements (verify spline count and length).

- **Used/Crash Parts** (from reputable sources like **IronPlanet or local wreckers**), though these require inspection for damage.

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Buying the **Ford 431-05123 rear drive shaft** for your **2002-2003 F-250 Super Duty (172" WB, automatic, 4WD)** is a **sound investment** if the part is failing or damaged. The benefits **reliability, performance, and prevention of further drivetrain damage** outweigh the costs for most owners, especially those who use their truck for **heavy hauling, towing, or off-roading**.

1. **Verify the Problem** Confirm the drive shaft is the source of issues (e.g., clunks, vibrations, or 4WD failure). A mechanic can help rule out other components.

2. **Purchase from a Trusted Source** Buy directly from **Ford dealerships, authorized Ford parts suppliers, or reputable online retailers** (e.g., **RockAuto, Summit Racing**) to avoid counterfeit parts.

3. **Budget for Full Replacement** Account for **part cost labor** (if not DIYing). Expect to spend **$1,000 $1,800 total** for a full, professional installation.

4. **Consider Professional Installation** Unless you re experienced with drivetrain work, hiring a mechanic ensures proper alignment, balancing, and torque specifications are met.

5. **Inspect Other Drivetrain Components** While replacing the drive shaft, have a mechanic check the **transfer case, axle seals, u-joints, and mounts** for wear. Addressing these now can prevent future failures.

6. **Maintain the New Shaft** Follow Ford s maintenance schedule, including **fluid changes (transfer case and axle) and periodic inspections** for wear or damage.

**Worth the investment if the drive shaft is confirmed faulty.** The long-term reliability and performance gains justify the cost, especially for trucks used in demanding applications. However, **shop around for the best price, ensure proper installation, and address any accompanying drivetrain issues** to maximize the part s lifespan.

Details:

Donor Vehicle. This part will only fit: FORD F250SD PICKUP 02 172 WB, AT; assembly, 4x4, 8-445 7.3L, diesel, from 1/02, 03 AT, F350SD 7.3L diesel, SRW, SRW. Year: 2002, model: F250SD, Stock #: V5046, Mileage: 223000. For more parts from this vehicle.

See below for fitment information and any notes pertaining to this specific part. It is ready to ship and comes with a 90 day warranty.

part #: f250sd prices

• $113.73-$364.99

specifications universajoin:

• for models: F250sd, 4wd
• for makes: Ford
• for years: 2002-2003
• brand: Ford Truck
• mpn: F250sd
• part type: Driveshaft
• genuine oem: Yes
• ipn: 431-05123
• warranty: 90 Day

returns universajoin:

• time: 60 Days
• paid by: Seller
• policy: Returns Accepted

shipping universajoin:

• service: UPS Ground
• cost: $0.00
• carrier: UPS
• class: Standard
• transit: 3-8 Days
• type: Fixed

payments universajoin:

• other
• credit card: Mastercard
• wallet: Paypal

offer universajoin:

• best offers: True
• options: Ship-to-home
• started: May 20, 2026
• availability: In Stock
• sold: 0
• quantity: 1

seller universajoin:

• # reviews: 16213
• rating: 99.1%
• city: Saint Johns, Michigan

general universajoin:

• Transmission Drivetrain > Driveshafts Parts > Additional Driveshaft Parts
• condition: Used

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