dwestsr

I've searched the archives and found lots of info on half shaft removal but none on drive shaft. Question is, Does the C beam have to be removed in order to remove the drive shaft or is there another way? Thanks, I'm getting ready to replace all u joints and rear wheel bearings on my 86.

scorp508

You have to at least unbolt each and and whack it to the passenger side with a mallet.

Bruthish

WHen I removed my tranny..this was quite possible the worst part...have fun.

nonetooclose

In short, yes. I just finished the three day job of replacing the rear differential seal. I would recommend you doing the same if you are going to be in there.

Thanks
Richard

JrRifleCoach

Removing the C-beam also requires dropping the exhaust system. I suggest that you invest in a set of beam plates from http://zfdoc.com/index.htm You will never regret the spending the money for these wonderful pieces. Not only will you benefit from the excellent straight line acceleration performance, the installation time of the C-beam is reduced to mere minutes.

:cheers: -JRC-

rodj

I can get mine out without removing C beam .
Undo bolts on diff , slide shaft to rear along side diff , then slide it out past the trans when yoke is free of splines.Assuming you have removed exhaust
The driveshaft is the first / last thing I do when removing trans.

Skippy Stone

I could have gotten mine off, but some dealer jerk beat the puss out of the C beam (before I bought it) and the shaft couldn't slip by anymore. :crazy:


[Modified by Skippy Stone, 1:17 AM 5/13/2004]

dwestsr

Thanks to all for the info, sounds like there is some differing opinions on if the C beam must be removed. I'm going to try it without c beam removal first. If push comes to shove, I'll remove it. but not if I don't have to. Again thanks to all who replied. :cheers:

scorp508

There is really not enough room between the c-beam and transmission tunnel to squeeze the shaft through. If you try to remove it without at least moving the c-beam to the side you'll mar the driveshaft and perhaps cause a misbalance issue.

Brimis

I can't speak for an 86, but my 84 was a breeze. I removed the exhaust system from the cat back and slid the driveshaft out with no problem. I replaced it with a Spicer driveshaft and ujoints.

Jason1985

I have serious vibration in my drive shaft and plan to fix it this winter. I'm also doing exhaust and from under the car it looks like it will be a breeze once I remove exhaust. What's your experience? Heard problems with C beam?? 1985 L98

HlhnEast

No issues with my '85 4+3. Take of the straps, compress it enough to clear the yoke and slide it out. Exhaust has to be dropped.

9T3VETTE

Agreed with the others that I did not have to remove my c-beam.

ghoastrider1

Jr. Rifle Coach hit the nail on the head with the back up of nuts on the top of the C-beams. Getting to the factory ones are a pain in the butt.

HlhnEast

While the DS is out, go ahead and tighten the c beam bolts for good measure.