5" Lift--Front Drive shaft too short/Rear too long

[Old Goat]

I've read threads about this before, but I need some confirmation. After 5" of lift I've gone through two front CV joints in nine months (both utterly destroyed). I seem to be at max extension up front on level ground. The fix: get my front drive shaft lengthed.

In the back, I seem to be at max compression. The fix: get my rear drive shaft shortened.

Keep in mind I'm using shackels in front and back and arched springs in front and leaves/blocks in rear. My pinion angles are (much) greater than stock but that seems to reduce driveline angle.

If you've been here please tell me I'm on the right track.

[ May 10, 2003, 08:22 AM: Message edited by: Old Goat ]

[Damage, Inc.]

Let me see if I remember this correctly.

On the rear, the pinion angle must be equal but opposite the output shaft angle of your xfer case. Otherwise, you'll get vibrations and destroyed u-joints.

On the front (cardigan-style joint) the driveline angles aren't that important as far as pinion alignment goes...you're more concerned with caster.

Mostly, if you're maxed out on extension / compression you'd want to take care of that.

[Stuka]

Sounds like your running outside the angle of the carden joint more then the shaft being to short. The shaft may be to short of course, but I dont see how that would cause the carden joint to blow up.

I would make sure its aways lubed good, and make sure the caps arnt over torqued. If they are, the needle bearings wont last at all.

[Old Goat]

The rear drive shaft angle is not good but there's no vibration and the u-joints have lasted.

When the front suspension compresses or extends with front shackles the drive shaft must lengthen to compensate, right?. If the drive shaft is maxed out isn't it the limiting factor in suspension travel (to an extent)?

Also, what's the torque specs for u-joint u-bolts? (Ball park) :confused:

[River Beast]

your problem in the front is ANGLE!!! the OEM CV is rated for 16 degrees operating angle and max of 22 degrees... you are prolly maxed out destroying your CV's get a high angle CV

[Old Goat]

Links please? I'm looking for something HD w/ a custom length and a dust boot. And if wishes were horses...

[River Beast]

www.arizonadrivelines.com (http://www.arizonadrivelines.com)

talk to STEVE.... Hybrid high angle CV