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Both outside (A) and inside (B) clips may be used to retain U-joint cups, as is the case on this rare hybrid. The inside clip is used on some Chrysler and GM vehicles. The seal diameter measurement, if needed, equals the outside diameter of the smooth (pilot) end of the trans yoke. |
If you already have the yoke(s), supply the spline dimensions and the cup diameter (A). On an outside- retaining-clip yoke (left), measure the distance between the locating tabs (B). On an inside-retaining-clip yoke (right), measure the distance between the flat locating surfaces (C). |
Splines are measured by their major diameterpeak to peak on male splines or trough to trough on female splines (shown). When counting splines, use chalk to mark the starting point. |
If you dont already have a yoke, your driveshaft maker needs a measurement from either the trans cases rear face (A) or the rear seal surface (B). |
Here is Dennys method for determining driveshaft length if you already have a trans slip-yoke. Dennys wants the yoke bottomed in the trans for this measurement. CC |
Trick engine, trick trans, trick rearend--your ride is about ready to rumble, were it not for a crucial missing link: the driveshaft.
A custom driveshaft is one of the last things the average car crafter thinks about, yet its proper design and installation is crucial for achieving both a smooth ride and reliable performance. How do you figure out how long it needs to be? To help our readers get shafted, we consulted several leading specialists in the field, including Cannon Engineering, Denny's Driveshaft Service, and Wenco Industries. Even more details than we have space for here can be found on these companies' Web sites, but this info will get you started.
Check out the accompanying photos and captions as well as the sidebars below.