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Extend Your Tailshaft’s Life: Essential Maintenance Tips

GJ Drivelines Industrial Tailshaft

Want to keep your car running smoother for longer and avoid those dreaded repair bills? Of course you do!

One crucial part of car care that often gets overlooked is your trusty tailshaft. This unsung hero works hard under your vehicle, transferring power from the engine to the wheels, and just like any other part, it needs a bit of TLC to stay in top shape.

Here are some essential maintenance tips to extend the life of your tailshaft and keep you cruising happily for years to come.

Regular Check-ups are Key

Just like you go to the doctor for regular check-ups, your car needs the same attention. Make it a habit to inspect your tailshaft regularly for any signs of wear and tear.

Look out for things like cracks, dents, or any unusual wear patterns. If you spot anything that looks suspect, don’t hesitate to get it checked out by a mechanic. Remember, prevention is always better (and cheaper!) than replacement.

Get Ready to Roll: Ensure Proper Lubrication

Proper lubrication is vital for any moving part, and your tailshaft is no exception. Make sure the universal joints and centre bearing are properly greased to reduce friction and wear.

This simple step can significantly extend the life of your tailshaft and prevent those annoying squeaks and rattles.

Balance is the Name of the Game

A balanced tailshaft is a happy tailshaft. Over time, your tailshaft can become unbalanced due to wear and tear, leading to vibrations and premature failure.

Getting your tailshaft balanced regularly can help prevent these issues and ensure a smooth, comfortable ride.

Drive Smoothly, Live Longer

Your driving habits can also impact the lifespan of your tailshaft. Avoid harsh acceleration and sudden braking, as these can put unnecessary stress on the drivetrain.

Try to drive smoothly and consistently, especially when towing or carrying heavy loads. It’s not just better for your tailshaft, it’s better for your fuel economy too!

Listen to Your Car

Your car often gives you subtle hints when something’s not right. Pay attention to any unusual noises, vibrations, or changes in handling. These could be early warning signs of a tailshaft issue. Don’t ignore them!

Addressing problems early on can prevent more serious damage down the track. Think of it like a niggling pain in your body – it’s best to get it checked out before it becomes a major problem.

Time For Some TLC

Taking care of your tailshaft is an investment in the longevity and performance of your vehicle. By following these simple maintenance tips, you can extend its life, avoid costly repairs, and enjoy a smooth, hassle-free driving experience. 

Jump onto our website at GJ Drivelines today to explore our range of services and to get expert advice about tailshaft maintenance!

Enquire With Us today

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ALL YOUR TAILSHAFT AND DRIVESHAFT NEEDS

  • CUSTOMISED TAILSHAFT MANUFACTURING
  • TAILSHAFT REPAIR, RECONDITIONING AND STRENGTHENING
  • DIGITAL BALANCING
  • REPLACEMENT OF TAILSHAFT COMPONENTS
  • DIAGNOSTIC DRIVING AND VIBRATION ANALYSIS
  • SUPPLIER OF TAILSHAFT COMPONENTS
  • DRIVESHAFT REPAIR AND MANUFACTURING
  • DRIVESHAFT CENTER BEARINGS
  • UNIVERSAL AND CV JOINTS
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Identify Transmission

Chrysler – Dodge
727 – 30 Spline 1 11/16″ Seal Diameter
904 – 26 Spline 1 9/16″ Seal Diameter

Ford
C6-T56 – 31 Spline 1 11/16″ Seal Diameter
AOD & C4 & T5 – 28 Spline 1 1/2″ Seal Diameter
4 R 7OW – 28 Spline 1.598″ Seal Diameter

General Motors
T-350 700R4-4LLOE – 27 Spline 1 1/2″ Seal Diameter
T-400-4L80E – 32 Spline 1 7/8″ Seal Diameter

Note: Transmission slip yokes are manufactured with various U-Joint Series. It is important to match Horsepower and Torque requirements to U-Joint Series. For aftermarket transmission applications usually a spline count and seal diameter will identify slip yoke required.

Identify Rear U-Joint

diagram-d

If Pinion Yoke has Placement tabs that retain the U-Joint, measure inside tabs. See Diagram D.

diagram-e

If Pinion Yoke does not have Placement Tabs that retain U-Joint, measure from flat of yoke inside to inside. See Diagram E.

diagram-l

If 4 bolt Flange is used on pinion, measure Pilot Diameter and center to center diagonally bolt hole to bolt hole. See Diagram L.

diagram-a

Universal Joint Size. There are hundreds of U-Joint sizes or “Series” to accomodate many different applications of power and desired longevity for your automotive, 4×4 truck or auto racing requirements, these 4 series of joints cover most needs.

1310 Spicer Series: 1 1/16″ Cup Diameter (Dim C – Diagram A) 3 7/32″ length (Dim B – Diagram A) Certain Ford applications have 2 cups 1 1/8 Diameter. Appropriate horse power range is up to 500 in circle track or road racing, small tire drag racing and 4×4. Also available: Performance Dynamic Cryo Joint.

1330 Spicer Series: 1 1/16″ Cup Diameter (Dim C – Diagram A) 3 5/8″ length (Dim B – Diagram A) Certain Ford applications have 2 cups 1 1/8 Diameter. Slightly stronger than 1310, Used in 5.0 Mustangs. Also available: Performance Dynamic Cryo Joint.

3R Saginaw Series: 1 1/8″ Cup Diameter (Dim C – Diagram A) Retained with internal clip 2 5/8″ (Dim B – Diagram A). Most common GM joint. Horse power range up to 700 in road racing and circle track. Solid drag racing U-Joint can accomodate most sportsman classes. Also available: Performance Dynamic Cryo Joint.

1350 Spicer Series: Manufactured with OEM tolerances and treated with our Cryogenic Process to yeild the strongest U-Joint available. For drag racing applications a solid non-lube design U-Joint is recommended because of the tremendous initial shock load, or short duration of high torque the joint must be able to withstand.

 

Driveshaft Measurements

diagram-n

If PST is supplying you with transmission slip yoke, Pinion yoke and driveshaft yoke measure Dim W. See Diagram N.

If PST is supplying you with transmission slip yoke and driveshaft measure Dim X. See Diagram N.

2 Piece driveshafts use Dim Y + Z. See Diagram N.