Double Cardan Joint on Front Drive Shaft

88' XJ, I6, NP242, stock.

So I pulled my front drive shaft and found that the centering ball in the double cardan joint was sticking. I tore it apart, replaced the ball and yoke and the two u-joints. I stuck it back on and test drove it - no issues. When I got back to the workshop, I found a small metal spring on the workbench...and i started yelling. It was the small spring that goes in the centering ball. I'm just curious if this is going to cause some issues. Can I keep running without the spring? Do I need to pull the shaft right away and fix it?

I would fix it, but a definitive answer I don't have.

Figure they are put in there for a reason, right?

You definately need to re-install it!

it's an important part... lol

Hallo guys, talking about the double cardan joint, is it possible this part makes a humming noise by 40miles? On my rig it is straight with less angle.
I know it is difficult to grease hidden by the crossmember.:dunno:

92'XJ wim

pull the shaft and grease it outside, make sure it will accept the grease

Thanks Ehall. I could managed it with a special grease nozzle.

wim