Here is the deal. I am trying to find out what is causing the vibration demon I have been chasing for a month now.
I want to drop the rear drive shaft, lock my hubs and put the t-case in 4hi and drive 2-3 blocks to see if my vibration stops. I only need to achieve 20mph to see if it disappears.
I'm tired of wasting time chasing the problem. The parts I have replaced so far were needed so it hasn't been a waste of money, but it's now to the point that If I just start throwing parts at it will be a waste of time & money.
You do not indicate what steps you have taken to this point. In general, vibrations can be tires out of balance, tie-rod and ball joints, wheel bearings, motor/transmission mounts, and drive shaft u-joints or CV joints.
Dropping the drive shaft will not tell you much. Needing to only get to about 20 mph indicates you do have a problem.
If you feel the vibration through the steering wheel, concentrate on front-end issues. If you feel the vibration through the flooring, look for motor/transmission mounts, wheel bearing, and driveshaft problems.
U-joint and CV joint problems start with vibrations and quickly move to visual problems.
As to your specific question about driving in 4wd with rear driveshaft removed...
No problem. As noted, you will be underpowered and steering will have an odd feel and sensitive. You can go to normal highway speed and distance is not restricted. Again, your steering will be more sensitive.
BTDT....
