T case frnt output shaft bearing

[Sturoc]

Have a cyclical grinding vibration when slowing at 15 to 5 mph foot on brakes ir coasting to stop. I feel it in steering wheel, at floor and little in my butt. Local 4x4 shop nailed the cause being a possible failing outpt shaft bearing in T case.
I pulled the front driveshaft and vibration went away.
Am thinking because the shaft is no longer spinning and not conducting the vibe down the driveshaft its a pretty good guess its that bearing.But would the two piece drivshft make this noise ? U joints replaced 15 months ago but cant remember bout the mid joint. Was balanced also.
Wondering if i need to protect the T case frnt shaft from dirt rain water road crap while driving w/o the Dshft ? Since its not spinning i could zip tie a baggie around it ?

 

[Smokeybear01]

It sure wouldn't hurt, but it would probably clean up fine either way when you're ready to put the shaft back on. If that turns out to be the source of the grinding vibration, it won't be long before the seal begins leaking. Something you'll want to keep an eye on if you can't fix it real soon. Have you checked the drive shaft and front differential to be sure the vibration isn't from them? I've had vibrations from drive shafts and grinding feelings from differentials in the past. Good luck