D-shaft question Explorer Owners

[adsm08]

Anyone out there with a 1st gen explorer MT 4x4, I need some help.

The first thing I need to know, and I think I already know, this is just double checking, the shaft with the double cardan joint is the rear one.

The second thing I need to know is what is the length of the front shaft, flange to flange.

This isn't really super important, it'd just be nice to have some numbers to work with before I start working on this.

 

[dangerrangerstx]

the front tcase yoke and driveshaft should bolt right into the rear

 

[adsm08]

Well my issue here is that I am putting trans, and t-case from a 91 explorer on my 87 ranger. I'm already going to the 1-piece rear shaft. I am trying to figure out what if any mods need made to the explorer front shaft (and to make sure the one I think is the front is in fact the front) so that I can get everything ready to go.

 

[adsm08]

Well, after dumping my keys and phone down a storm drain, I got the number I needed. The front shaft is 31 7/16 inch long fully compressed. My current front shaft is 29 in on the nose to the front of the t-case. So either my new trans is 2 1/2 inches longer than the old one or I need to go see my drive line guy.

This thread can be deleted if you wish Mr. Mods Guys.