Having done this swap a couple times, let me tell you a secret. The
driveshafts are exactly one inch shorter when completely compressed or
extended. However they have about 2 1/2 inches worth of movement in them
between compressed and full extension. Taken into account the fact that
your engine and tranny have enough slack to be pulled forward or back at
least an inch. I would personally not lose any sleep over using the old
driveshaft if an overdrive shaft is not available. However balancing would
be a good idea.
Patrick
----- Original Message -----
From: Joe Curry <spitlist@gte.net>
To: Terry L. Thompson <tlt@digex.net>
Cc: <spitfires@autox.team.net>
Sent: Friday, February 11, 2000 4:40 PM
Subject: Re: OD vs. Non-OD drive shaft
>
> Yes,
> The OD shaft is shorter. However, your best bet is to install the
> tranny, measure precisely and have the drive shaft shortened and
> balanced. After a few years of use, mist are out of balance anyway!
>
> Be sure to find "in advance" the plate that supports the rear of the
> tranny and the shock mount that bolts onto it. The plates are different
> for OD and non-OD trannies.
>
> Regards,
> Joe
>
> "Terry L. Thompson" wrote:
> >
> > I have a '76 Non-OD spit and am accumulating parts to do a swap to a
> > rebuilt J-type OD trans.
> > Is there a difference between the drive-shafts?
> >
> > Also, anyone that's done the swap before, I'd appreciate any tips or
> > suggestions that might
> > expedite or reduce the cursing usually caused by a "modification" like
this.
> > I have a borg and beck clutch kit on order and the clutch cylinders are
> > both less than 7 mos.
> > old.
> >
> > -Terry L. Thompson
> > '76 Spit 1500
> > Maryland
>
> --
> "If you can't excel with talent, triumph with effort."
> -- Dave Weinbaum in National Enquirer
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