Driveshaft ?

[Ta2Don]

I'm building a 65 short Stepper, and as part of my build I am installing a NV3500 5 speed which is 3 inches shorter than the TH350 that was in the truck when I purchased it. My question concerns lengthening the driveshaft. There are a couple of places locally that do this type of work, and I've heard good reports about both shops. The question I have is, Do I need to go with the shop that is going to replace the entire tube, or with the shop who says they can just add the 3"? There's about a hundred dollars difference in the estimate so I'm looking for advice since I've never had driveshaft work done in the past. Thanks in advance...

[jonzcustomshop]

I think I would go with the full tube... lengthening can be pricey, because of the cost of the steel for the tube.
any good shop will suggest the full tube replacement I think, lots less balancing issues.
If there is a way that you can find a shaft that is too long it is much cheaper to just shorten them.
maybe a 73-87 short box might fit, they have a couple inch longer wheel base than the 60-66 short box

[Captainfab]

I have never heard of anyone adding to the tube to stretch a driveshaft. Lengthening a driveshaft should always be done with replacing the entire tube. I agree with Jon on finding a driveshaft that is too long and having it shortened. It doesn't have to be from a GM either, As long as it has the right size yokes on it and is long enough. Do you already have the slip yoke for the back of the NV3500? There are 2 different ones, depending on the original drivesaft.

[Ta2Don]

Thanks for the advice Guys, the shop replacing the entire tube is estimating around $240. Capt Fab, I do have the correct slip yoke for the 5 speed. Since I am not close to actually needing the driveshaft just yet I will research the price difference between lengthening and getting a longer one to be shortened. Thanks again Guys!