Topic: square tube driveline question

[paradisekid]

I was going to build a square tube driveshaft for the front driveline after seeing one this weekend, but I have a few questions.  Can I purchase the 2 different sizes of tubing and modify my current driveshaft (85 4runner) or do I need other parts?  The truck that I saw this weekend used 2.5" 1/4 by 2.0" 1/4 with the smaller shaft closest to the differential and had about 5 inches showing.  I was hoping to just purchase the 2 sizes of tubing and modify my current driveline.  Is this possible?

[WHITE_TRASH]

Yup its easy.  Id expain everything about building one to you but I just got back from wheeling and Im too exhausted to go threough all that work.   I explained in great detail how to build one a couple months ago.  Search under square shaft or square driveline and Ill bet you'll find what your looking for.

[paradisekid [OP]]

Thank you WT.  From what I read if I purchase the tube, cap the smaller end, cut and modify the 2 current shafts, weld, grease, then reassemble I am good to go.

[paradisekid [OP]]

One last question though.  What are Zerk fittings and do I need them?

[mudmaster]

The fitting you use to grease your u-joints and yes you do

[paradisekid [OP]]

I wouldn't have to purchase new ones because I can use the existing ones on that are already on my 85 4runner's existing driveshaft u-joints.  Correct?

[mudmaster]

Still need a way to grease the two shafts that are sliding against each other just like your stock splined shaft. Zerk fittings are cheap, Lowes carries them here.

[paradisekid [OP]]

OK, so I guess I place a zerk fitting on the large tube close to the knuckle?  Thanks for the help.

[rockhound]

Search square shaft build. Check out my square shaft build, page two has pics. I didn't use zerks, just greased it up real good.

[paradisekid [OP]]

When squaring the old shafts should I use an angle grinder with a cut off wheel?

[rockhound]

That's what I used. Harbor Freight angle grinder with a 4" grinding wheel.
Did you check out the pics? I don't know how to attach the link, sorry.

[KYOTA]

dont waste your time installing zerks there just going to get ganked, grease it when you put it together then just pull the front of the d-line and seperate it to grease it again. when I built mine I pulled the fittings out and welded up the holes.

[toymachine]

Here's a right up on mine. 
http://infohost.nmt.edu/~jscarbro/driveshaft.htm

I have used it for awhile.  It is very stout, and works very well.  It has around 11 inches of total travel (8" slip,3" compress).

The zerks got ripped off before i even took the time to grease it, as i expected.

I have rear springs up front and didn't have them clamped, and when in Moab, i got enough axlewrap to pull the shaft apart.  Other than that, i haven't had any problems...

[BLUCRUZ]

You're welcome to come up and look closely at mine in Magalia if you wish. I'm home after 5pm most nights. I'll pm you my #.

[paradisekid [OP]]

Thank you for all the help.  I finished the driveshaft yesterday, but my weld came apart on the male end, so I have to weld it again.