How to Shorten & Balance a Drive Shaft

A well-balanced drive shaft is vital to a car's overall performance.

Your vehicle's drive shaft is responsible for turning torque into the rotation of several other components. The length and balance of the drive shaft is vital to the smooth operation of the vehicle. Shortening and balancing the shaft is an exact process and requires knowledge of the internal mechanisms of your vehicle. If you have the time and experience, you can save yourself a great deal of time and money by doing the job yourself. You'll also be rewarded with a much more pleasant driving experience.

Things You'll Need

• Chalk
• Grinder
• MIG gas welder

Instructions

1. Mark the drive shaft using a chalk line. The mark needs to run from the center of the front universal joint to the center of the rear universal joint. This will help you weld the new universal yoke on straight, and in the proper position.

2. Remove the rear yoke with a grinder. Cut the yoke at the welded seam by rotating the drive shaft and holding the grinder against the weld to cut through it. Keep the cut as straight and square as you can.

3. Remove the yoke and set it aside. Cut the drive shaft tube to the desired length with a saw.

4. Place the yoke inside of the shortened drive shaft tube, while making sure that the chalk lines are lined up perfectly.

5. Push the yoke into the tube until it seats fully. Secure the yoke into the tube by rotating the drive shaft as you weld the entire length around.

6. Balance the drive shaft. Take the shortened drive shaft to a machinist and have it balanced. If you don't do this, your vehicle could end up vibrating and the bearings might wear out sooner.

Tips & Warnings

• This is not a job for inexperienced home mechanics. It requires some expertise and the right equipment.

References

• BC 4X4: Do-It-Yourself Driveshaft Shortening
• Car Stuff: Drive Shaft