Driveshaft length
 

Hi Guys - My newly acquired 65 LWB has been presenting some challenges. The PO but in a 305 w/700r4 from a Camaro (1986-7??) The install is pretty rough all the way around. I took the driveshafts out to replace the carrier bearing and mount and the problems begin. How he got this shaft in I don't know but it sure looks like it is 1.5 to 2 in LONG. He must of jacked the truck way up in the air and let it back down on the shaft. No wonder there has been so much vibration! My question... Is 1 1/2 to 2 in typically the amount the shaft has to be shortened when a 700r4 is installed behind a SBC??

Re: Driveshaft length
 

If you have a lwb with a 700R4, you can use a drive shaft out of a lwb chevy truck in later years. I measured one at the yard one day and it was about the lenth I needed but I wasn't really doing it accuratly. If you know someone that has a newer truck with a 700R4 with an 8ft bed, try measuring that and see if it will work. Other then that you have to measure from the rear yolk to the end of the tranny. If you ask a driveline shop they will tell you where they want you to measure from. If you use one from a newer truck it will be a one piece.

Re: Driveshaft length
 

I bought a 64 Impala a few years ago with a carrier bearing, it too had a vibration and before I could locate it the carrier bearing went out. While replacing it i noticed they shortened the driveline to accomodate the updated tranny and the welded it back with no offset on the back end making it out of balance. I later found out they were buying carrier bearings by the bulk. Not saying thats your issue on the vibration but, keep it in mind and rule it out the next time your looking at it.