Rattle from front output shaft - Solutions?

Hi, I have a rattle from the front output shaft from the transfer box. I have found that the mud guard/shield on the output shaft is loose and rattling. I have tried to wedge it back to where it should be which stopped it rattling for a good while, however it has come loose again and when I try to push it back into place it only stays for a few miles before rattling again it seams.
What do you suggest that I do?
1 - Cut it off? worry that mud will destroy my output bearing, or the mud shield doesn't do much anyways.
2 - Try to weld it in place? fear that I will unbalance my drive train and make worse vibrations.
3 - Remove the prop-shaft and output shaft and press it back into position/replace it - grr that sounds like a lot of effort and a lot of rounding of old rusty bolts.
4 - keep crawling under every time I want to drive in hopes that I can wedge it into position enough that it stays for the journey?

Let me know your thoughts, the rattle is really bad at some speeds, does stop at higher speeds usually though.

fit a new shield or better shield and flange

jamesmartin said:

fit a new shield or better shield and flange

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Are they fairly easy to get the flanges out?

Rdog said:

Are they fairly easy to get the flanges out?

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yes just remove the prop

And if have not got one yet, get a prop bolt removal tool. Find on the flea bay for about a tenner. Saves skinned knuckles and much swearing.
Even a new flange, guard and seal set can be had for £25 or less.

tottot said:

And if have not got one yet, get a prop bolt removal tool. Find on the flea bay for about a tenner. Saves skinned knuckles and much swearing.
Even a new flange, guard and seal set can be had for £25 or less.

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Cheers chaps, sounds like a plan

That part is called a flinger. You can just remove it, you should be able to cut it off without removing the prop shaft.