I bought a used aluminum driveline a while ago out of a 1LE car. I have a '91 RS, 305 tbi, auto. Like most, it needs new U-joints first. What should I put in? The yoke has some rust on it and I am thinking of using the one that is in my car already, will this work? Any different U-joint to use? Thanks.

 

The u-joints on the aluminum driveshafts are different from the steel ones. The steel ones are held in with nylon originally, whereas the aluminum ones use u-joints with outer snap rings. So you'll need to specify it's for an aluminum driveshaft when you go to parts store for new u-joints. You probably ought to try and use the slip yoke from the aluminum shaft too, for the same reason. It has the grooves in it to hold the snap rings in place. If it's just the outer part of the yoke shaft that's rusty, just clean it up with some fine grit sandpaper. I'd recommend 220 grit to clean it up, followed by 400 grit to smooth it back out. If it's too rough, it'll eat up the seal in the back of the trans. Make sure to use some WD-40 on the slip yoke before you install it in the trans.

 

Pat's right. I cleaned many of these shafts with various grades of emery cloth. No problems.

JamesC

 

Thanks for the reply, I will try to clean up the one I have first... Any specific Ujoint to use? Or just a good one for the Alum. Driveline will do?

Thanks again!

 

Is there a big weight difference between steel and aluminum? I was thinking of getting a aluminum as well.

 

No.

JamesC

 

Yeah, I wouldn't say there's a huge difference in the weight, although it is lighter. The biggest advantage with the aluminum shaft is the reduced vibration at high speeds. I used to feel some slight vibration with my steel shaft starting at about 80 mph. I've been up around 120 mph with the aluminum, and it still feels smooth.

 

I'm tellin you mother, Pat!

JamesC

 

ok

lol!

 

It's funny you mention that! I was sitting here with Ma the other night watching that new movie "The Marine", and there's a scene where he's chasing after the bad guys in a 4th gen LS1/T56 cop car. I was getting all geeked up watching him slam through the gears. I told her I can't wait to get the manual tranny in my car, and she said she already worries enough about my driving with an auto. She say's I'm already nuts enough on the road as it is.