What is the correct way to measure driveshaft?

[BB72CHEVKT]

I am going to have to lengthen the driveshaft by 2 inches and have been told 72 inches is the max length. Is this the correct was to measure it? Do you just measure the tube only?

[john]

I measure center to center on the bearing caps.

[cdowns]

i always asked the guy workin on the driveshaft exavtly how he wants it measured

[GASWAGON]

Originally Posted by cdowns

i always asked the guy workin on the driveshaft exavtly how he wants it measured

x2!

[bigbadchev72]

My driveshaft guy always wants a center to center of caps, 72" Is a long driveshaft, the longer they are the more they tend to get a "belly" in them when spinning and get out of balance.

X2 on calling and asking how they want it measured

[fishingjred73]

x2 on calling but here's a good pic to go by http://www.dennysdriveshaft.com/how_to_measure.html

[denny5625]

I just had mine shortened. the driveshaft people told me to place the truck with all the weight on the wheels, slide the front yoke into the back of the tailshaft and then pull it out about 1/2" to 3/4". Then measure center to center of the u-joints front to rear. Worked good for me.

[Arizona oldguy]

Just had one made for my 67 short bed, I live near Phoenix did a google search for drive shaft shops. Master Shaft is the place I used and they had an on line guide telling you how to measure the length. Good luck

[Painter D]

Ask whoever you're going to have do the work how "they" want it measured. Different places and different people prefer different ways to get the length desired.


I've got to say the word "different" one more time.

[brad_man_72]

end of trans tailshaft to center of ujoint on rear end is a great measurement. That's the measurement we prefer, if it's wrong it's our fault well make it right free.

max driveshaft lenth is mosty limited by driveshaft diameter. 2" diameter would be good for about 40", 3" diameter woud be about 60". Too long or spinning too fast can turn into a jumprope and ruin your day.