
While there are a few potential causes for these vibrations, one often-overlooked culprit is your tail shaft. This essential component plays a key role in your car’s drivetrain, and when it’s not functioning properly, it can create a range of issues, including those frustrating vibrations.
Let’s explore how tail shaft problems can lead to a bumpy ride.
Your tail shaft is that spinning rod connecting your gearbox to the differential. It’s a tough job, and it needs to be perfectly balanced to do it right.
Over time, things can happen. Wear and tear, a few too many potholes, or even just age can throw that balance off. When it’s out of balance, even slightly, you’ll feel it.
Those vibrations might start subtly, maybe just a slight hum at certain speeds. But if left unchecked, they can escalate into a full-blown shaking frenzy.
While balance is a big deal, it’s not the only tail shaft issue that can cause vibrations. Worn-out universal joints (U-joints), those flexible connections at each end of the tail shaft, can also be culprits. These joints allow the tail shaft to move with the suspension, but when they wear out, they can create a noticeable vibration, especially when you’re accelerating or decelerating.
And let’s not forget about the centre bearing, that support in the middle of the tail shaft. If it’s worn or damaged, you’ll likely feel vibrations throughout the car.
We love optimism, but when it comes to car vibrations, ignoring them is never a good idea. Those vibrations aren’t just annoying; they’re a sign that something’s not right. Ignoring them can lead to more serious damage to your drivetrain, costing you more time and money down the road.
So, what’s the solution?
If you suspect your tail shaft is causing the vibrations, it’s time to get it checked out. A professional mechanic can diagnose the issue, whether it’s a balance problem, worn U-joints, or a faulty centre bearing. They have the expertise and equipment to get your tail shaft back in top shape, ensuring a smooth and safe ride.
So, what’s the verdict?
While the DIY spirit is admirable, tail shaft repairs are often best left to the experts. If you’re experiencing any issues with your tail shaft, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at GJ Drivelines.
Get in touch today for a free quote and inspection, and let our experienced mechanics take care of the rest.
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.
If Pinion Yoke has Placement tabs that retain the U-Joint, measure inside tabs. See Diagram D.
If Pinion Yoke does not have Placement Tabs that retain U-Joint, measure from flat of yoke inside to inside. See Diagram E.
If 4 bolt Flange is used on pinion, measure Pilot Diameter and center to center diagonally bolt hole to bolt hole. See Diagram L.
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.
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.