It wouldn't "pop out of gear". Driving normally in 2wd your rear drive shaft transfers torque to your rear differential then too your rear 2 wheels to spin, your 2 front just spin, theirs no direct torque application. When you engage 4wd, torque is applied through your front driveshaft to your front differential too your wheels, so you can get that extra traction and power. Without that front driveshaft you could only have 2wd, even if it was engaged in 4wd, because their would be nothing transfering mechanical energy to your front differential. If it's wabbly like mine, it's at risk to break, it would not affect your gears. I found one in a junkyard in tumwater WA for $25. Too bad I didn't have the tools with me too take it off.
