Drive Shaft

[rlafash]

I own a 1966 Skylark GS. The car was originally equipped with a Super Turbine 300 automatic transmission. When I purchased the car it had a THM400. I've had a vibration and noise issue since I bought the car. My machine shop has found that the drive shaft can not be balanced. They have siggested replacing it, including the yokes at both ends and the universal joints. We believe that this was the original drive shaft and that it was cut down for use with the THM400. We have noticed that there is very little, if any, end play at the transmission end of the shaft. The fit between the transmission and pinion yoke is quite tight. Since this shaft will be used to provide the demensions for the new shaft, I am concerned that it too may be too tight. Can anyone advice on the amount of end play, if any, that should be present in order to provide smooth operation? Thanks.

[Dr. Frankenbuick]

You should have 3/4" of clearance with the weight of the car on the wheels. I would give you the measurements of the one I had made for my 67 (same trans placement in same frame), but it was cut a little shorter because a 12 bolt chevy rear was used.