Fully slide the yoke into the transmission and then slide it out about 3/4 of an inch. You then measure from the center of the u-joint cap to the center of the u-joint cap on the rear axle yoke. This need to be done with the suspension loaded.
The engine and transmission are not in the car. I need to determine if the drive shaft I have is the correct one. I need to know how long it is supposed to be. I found some measurements in the parts book on how to measure the distance for the universal joint (3 1/8"), but the book does not explain how to measure the length of the drive shaft.
Is the word "center" referring to where the universal joints are installed on both ends?
Some years back I started a thread about DS lengths....might do a search. Thing is, not all cars are the same due to production tolerances and 'minor' screw ups. A trim piece that fits one car but is 1/4" too long (width of the rear of the car) happens. I've experienced that first hand plus a wide wheel/tire wouldn't fit on side but did fit the other side of the same car and there were absolutely no signs of a crash on the cars. It's best to have the the drive line in the car and then take measurements. Too many charts are a 'rule of thumb' fit.
Center to Center is Center of the yoke saddles aka Center of the u joint cap to other end and Center of the other cap/yoke
Then what anyone tells you is an educated guess.
Lots of times that's true but then there's that 'one of many' where that isn't true. Anyways, if the OP is wanting a DS that 'should fit' then go with a longer measurement then that way the tube can be at least shortened instead of starting completely over.
My thoughts exactly. If the op has a spare block and trans case, then it's easy to stick them in the car and get pretty close to what's needed.
Amen!
