1. Registration trouble? Please use the "Contact Us" link at the bottom right corner of the page and your issue will be resolved.
    Dismiss Notice

Drive Shaft Length

Discussion in 'Intermediate CJ-5/6/7/8' started by Wrettman, Jul 21, 2019.

  1. Jul 21, 2019
    Wrettman

    Wrettman New Member

    Colorado... for now
    Joined:
    Jul 21, 2019
    Messages:
    6
    Scenario:
    I've this '81 CJ-5, currently bearing the 2.5 liter 151 with SR-4 and Dana 300. The plan is to swap in a 360 (rebuild underway) and a T-18, overhauling the 300. Differentials are AMC 20 rear with Dana 30 in the front. The CJ-5 being as beautifully short as it is, I can't help but wonder how long (or short) of shafts to procure. Has anyone made a similar swap and recalls the new shaft lengths or currently runs a similar setup?
    I might add that I am currently half way across the planet from my project, unfortunately, so I am unable to put forth any as-of measurements.
     
    Last edited: Jul 21, 2019
  2. Jul 22, 2019
    DrDanteIII

    DrDanteIII Master Procrastinator

    Milford NJ 08848
    Joined:
    Mar 21, 2007
    Messages:
    1,516
    There are so many variables, your best bet is to just have a rear shaft made once everything is in place. Additionally, if you are adding any sort of lift, you'll most likely need to switch to a CV-style double cardan shaft.

    The front shaft will probably have enough play in it to accomodate the swap without modification. And it doesn't need to run as smoothly as the rear since it will generally be intermittent duty and at lower speeds.

    tom woods is a great resource. I bought a driveshaft from them in 2006, and just last year they honored the (optional) trail hazard warranty when I needed it modified.
    Tom Wood's Custom Drive Shafts - Tom Woods Custom Drive Shafts Custom Driveshafts Specialist
     
    Wrettman and 47v6 like this.
  3. Jul 23, 2019
    Wrettman

    Wrettman New Member

    Colorado... for now
    Joined:
    Jul 21, 2019
    Messages:
    6
    That website has quite a bit of helpful information to read as well, much appreciated.
     
    DrDanteIII likes this.
  4. Jul 24, 2019
    Rich M.

    Rich M. Shoe salesman 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    Maryland
    Joined:
    Mar 23, 2008
    Messages:
    2,169
    I called Tom Woods while laying underneath with a tape measure. 3days later I had a stout driveshaft to put in. Just can't beat that.
     
    Wrettman and 47v6 like this.
New Posts