1968 DriveShaft/U joints

Clapton151 · 01-06-2004, 11:37 AM

How do I remove the drive shaft? I need to replace the U joints and I know how to do that...but how do I get the shat itself out? After the center joint is undone, does it just pull out? Thanks.

1tuff66 · 01-06-2004, 03:01 PM

To remove your driveshaft:

1. Properly lift and support your vehicle
2. Make alignment marks on the attaching flange areas for proper reinstallation
3. Remove all parts required to access the driveshaft, and to prevent damage. THis may include exhaust, brackets, etc.
4. Remove the fasteners that attach the driveshaft to the differential (aka ubolts). Replace if damaged.
5. Lower the rear of the driveshaft, then pull straight rearward until the slip yoke is free. Remove the driveshaft from the vehicle.
6. Install a plug into the transmission housing, to prevent leakage.
7. You should be all set to replace the ujoints now!

It's been awhile so don't shoot me if I forgot something. One of the few things that are easier done then said. Good luck!

Jeff65 · 01-06-2004, 03:13 PM

Problem with overhauling the driveshaft yourself is you have no balance equipment. After doing the work, if you have driveshaft vibrations, you're no further ahead. Its often as cheap to have a driveshaft shop do the work, install the u-joints and balance the assembly. Check around your area and see if there's a shop that specializes in light duty axle and driveline work. You may find their prices attractive enough to warrant just letting the pro's do it.

mustangII460 · 01-06-2004, 08:56 PM

#4 Id get new U-bolts. 1968 are pretty old. There cheap to replace. Think I paid 8 bucks last time.

Spicer are the best brand U-Joints. Atleast in my expierence.

The above info is dead on.

Rev · 01-06-2004, 10:03 PM

I've rplaced alot of u-joints. I've never needed to rebalance a drive shaft unless it was a graft from one front to a different rear requiring a cut and weld job. Then a rebalance is mandatory.

Just replacing the same u-joints is relatively easy. Just remove the drive shaft as detailed earlier, and replace the parts. Careful with the roller bearings so as not to lose any and all will go without trouble.

Unless you have high horse power, then use grease fitting u-joints for longevity. Very high horse power requires u-joints without the fittings which weaken the parts somewhat.

Rev

Clapton151 · 01-06-2004, 10:34 PM

Thank you everyone for your help. It's most appriciative! First time restoring, and doing the work myself. Again thank you all.

01-06-2004, 11:37 AM	#1
Clapton151 Registered Member Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Newark, Delaware Posts: 4	1968 DriveShaft/U joints How do I remove the drive shaft? I need to replace the U joints and I know how to do that...but how do I get the shat itself out? After the center joint is undone, does it just pull out? Thanks.

01-06-2004, 03:01 PM	#2
1tuff66 Registered Member Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Wausau, WI Posts: 11	To remove your driveshaft: 1. Properly lift and support your vehicle 2. Make alignment marks on the attaching flange areas for proper reinstallation 3. Remove all parts required to access the driveshaft, and to prevent damage. THis may include exhaust, brackets, etc. 4. Remove the fasteners that attach the driveshaft to the differential (aka ubolts). Replace if damaged. 5. Lower the rear of the driveshaft, then pull straight rearward until the slip yoke is free. Remove the driveshaft from the vehicle. 6. Install a plug into the transmission housing, to prevent leakage. 7. You should be all set to replace the ujoints now! It's been awhile so don't shoot me if I forgot something. One of the few things that are easier done then said. Good luck! __________________ "Isabelle" 1966 Mustang 2+2 289 ci, 4 - speed

01-06-2004, 10:03 PM	#5
Rev Registered Member Join Date: Nov 1998 Location: Houston, Tx. Posts: 3,887	No balance needed I've rplaced alot of u-joints. I've never needed to rebalance a drive shaft unless it was a graft from one front to a different rear requiring a cut and weld job. Then a rebalance is mandatory. Just replacing the same u-joints is relatively easy. Just remove the drive shaft as detailed earlier, and replace the parts. Careful with the roller bearings so as not to lose any and all will go without trouble. Unless you have high horse power, then use grease fitting u-joints for longevity. Very high horse power requires u-joints without the fittings which weaken the parts somewhat. Rev __________________ '66 Coupe, 306, 350-375 HP, C-4, 13.07 e.t., 104.8 mph, 1/4 mi. O.B.C. #2 '66 coupe

01-06-2004, 10:34 PM	#6
Clapton151 Registered Member Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Newark, Delaware Posts: 4	Thank you all Thank you everyone for your help. It's most appriciative! First time restoring, and doing the work myself. Again thank you all.

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01-06-2004, 03:13 PM	#3
Jeff65 Registered Member Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Oklahoma City Posts: 208	Problem with overhauling the driveshaft yourself is you have no balance equipment. After doing the work, if you have driveshaft vibrations, you're no further ahead. Its often as cheap to have a driveshaft shop do the work, install the u-joints and balance the assembly. Check around your area and see if there's a shop that specializes in light duty axle and driveline work. You may find their prices attractive enough to warrant just letting the pro's do it.

01-06-2004, 08:56 PM	#4
mustangII460 Factoy Five Roadster Join Date: May 2000 Location: Sevier Co,Tennessee Posts: 1,681	#4 Id get new U-bolts. 1968 are pretty old. There cheap to replace. Think I paid 8 bucks last time. Spicer are the best brand U-Joints. Atleast in my expierence. The above info is dead on.