Lets talk propshafts

[grahamstein]

Im looking to get a new one, i know gilbert sells one, but im not sure of the install/pricing/reliability details, any help? Im also looking for the same info on the updated dynotech shaft, as well as the napa. If any others come to mind feel free to mention. TIA

 

[jwaller]

I've used several of the new dynotech units. and not a single problem. they are a bit more than the others but you usually get what you pay for.... :fist:

 

[Jimmy]

I like the Kenne Bell 10 second propshafts.

 

[grahamstein]

I dont mean to sound repedative, but do you guys have more details? Im looking for info on the price/installation/quality. I didnt know Kenne Bell made a shaft for us, but all possible information is greatly apreciated.

 

[SY2932]

The desire to retain a "stockish" propshaft when it needs replacement always puzzles me... I guess some enjoy the added weight that comes with double cardan and constant velocity joints. Read: "heavier weight=more strength". Then for others, the inability to lube joints is another. Afterall, who want's to crawl under their truck and handle a nasty grease gun? Zerk fittings are a bad thing :-?.

I have the Gilbert propshaft in my truck and it has performed flawlessly for a year and a half. No vibration at speeds over what the speedo reads either. You have to "modify" your transmission linkage to install it:

http://huryde.station180.com/gallery/view_photo.php?set_albumName=mikecampbellakaSY2932&id=aah
http://huryde.station180.com/gallery/view_photo.php?set_albumName=mikecampbellakaSY2932&id=aak

You also have to remove the front mounting flange but, it is straight forward with an impact gun and a 32mm socket.

The Gilbert propshaft is lighter than stock, has a bigger O.D. than stock, does away with the double cardan and constant velocity joints and has zerk fittings. Not to mention it can be bought for less than what the "stockish" ones sell for:

http://huryde.station180.com/gallery/view_photo.php?set_albumName=mikecampbellakaSY2932&id=aal

HTH's

Mike Campbell

 

[grahamstein]

Nice, as far as the installation is concerned, what has to be done to the linkage to fit the shaft? Is it something that can be done by us non-welding folks?

 

[Nick NY]

Speak to Tommy Quest, he is a NASTE member. He has a guy in NY, Yonkers I think, that makes real nice pieces.

 

[SY2932]

Nice, as far as the installation is concerned, what has to be done to the linkage to fit the shaft? Is it something that can be done by us non-welding folks?

Due to the O.D. of Gilbert's prop, the transmission range select lever (this is on the side of the trans and is held on by only one nut) has to be cut, hammered somewhat flatter and then shortened. When you look at the range select lever from the side, the top and bottom are parallel to each other. The middle is angled and that is where you have to make all the "modifications". Gilbert includes instructions (have diagrams) with his prop so, there isn't any guess work. Any welding shop could do it for you in under 5 minutes, the welding that is, (had a bud do mine) and it shouldn't cost you more than $10-$15. It isn't as involved as it sounds... The range select lever has to be shortened or else the propshaft will rub against it and prevent you from shifting your transmission. HTH's

Mike Campbell

 

[myclone]

Lemme be devils advocate for a minute.... I personally like the stock style prop shaft for only ONE reason. No zerc fittings.

I absolutely HATE greasable U joints cause they fling grease all over the place over time no matter what amount of grease you put in them. Its just one of my pet peaves I guess. I hate crawling under the truck to do something and the underside is a greasey/slimey mess from the U joints. Gimme the factory sealed type any day as I know when they need replacing and dont mind doing so to keep at least one source of crud to a minimum.

Just my .0000000002