How to swap drive shaft yokes?

[1990LXDropTop]

Is there a special way to swap drive shaft yokes? I'm starting my TKO swap tomorrow afternoon and need to have the yokes swapped as the TKO requires a 31-spline yoke. Can I do this myself or do I have to take it somewhere? If so, where do I have to take it? How long does it take to do?

 

[ExplodingGopher]

You need to take it to a shop that specalizes in clutches and/or driveshaft service. I had to put a C6 yoke on my driveshaft with the 8.8 rear flange and have it shortened 3 inches. They have to balance it as well. So unless it'll only be turning around 100-200 rpms, take it to the professionals.

 

[1990LXDropTop]

You need to take it to a shop that specalizes in clutches and/or driveshaft service. I had to put a C6 yoke on my driveshaft with the 8.8 rear flange and have it shortened 3 inches. They have to balance it as well. So unless it'll only be turning around 100-200 rpms, take it to the professionals.

What about a reputable transmission shop?

 

[ExplodingGopher]

You need to call them and see if they even deal with driveshafts, I took mine to Cleveland clutch and joint/hydraulics in CLeveland Ohio and they did all the above stuff to it for $80 out the door.

 

[dderek]

you have to have it balanced after changing the yoke?

 

[ExplodingGopher]

The probably only balanced mine b/c i had it shortened 3 inches, im not a driveshaft tech, i build engines.

 

[ECU5.0]

i dont think you have to get it balanced if youre just changing the yoke. but you might as well just take it somewhere and get it done. its a headache. but if you do it yourself its just like changing the u-joints except your changing out the yoke too.

 

[srothfuss]

You should really have it balanced. (Especially if it's the original shaft) The OEM shaft is know to bend similar to a jump rope once a lot of power is put through it.

Plus, wouldn't you want to know that you don't have to worry about the shaft after you install it..?

 

[rd]

Changing the yoke is essentially just the same job as changing the u-joint.

Make sure you have the proper u-joint, and then just take it apart and put it back together.

If possible, use a press, or a u-joint c-clamp type tool. A hammer will do if you are careful. A M or BFH is best.

Or, most auto machine shops have a press and can do this for a nominal fee.

The u-joint should be located closely enough by the snap rings so that re balancing is not necessary.