Driveshaft???

[Black P-38]

Hey guys!!! Newb here, gonna take the V-8 plunge. I figure the easiest way to remove 1400 lbs from my '94 Lightning is to just build a 5.0 Ranger and be done with it!!! (No wonder these things are so FAST). Project will be an 89-92 Reg cab 2wd short bed. 5.0, T-5 HD, 8.8 Trac loc 3.73. My question is... what length of driveshaft did you use and has anyone modified an aluminum 'stang shaft to fit???

Thanks for your help,
Mike

Watch for it!!!

 

[projectnitemare]

You can get lucky in the junkyard if you look around. I've done it a few times. I got one from a crown vic wagon once. It will depend on your engine placement to whether or not you will find something to fit. If you are going to drag race it or something of the similar I would recommend building or getting one built to take the abuse. Cut a stock shaft apart once, some are only .040 wall thickness. Make one from .083 and you'll be playing for a long time.

Matt

 

[baddad457]

The driveshaft is the last thing to worry about with a swap. You won't know how long it needs to be until you've completed installing the motor and transmission. Your stock Ranger shaft just very well may be the shaft you end up using. They may be small but they're not weak. I used the stock 2 piece shaft in my 89 for about three years before the 331 broke the cast slip yoke just behind the hanger bearing. And then, it was the sudden application of torque,a 4 speed Toploader, a dry rough asphalt parking lot, 275/60/15 tires and traction-loc that did it in. The two shafts themselves, held up fine.

 

[projectnitemare]

I've also had luck and used the stock Ranger shaft on one project now that I recall. I've seen a lot of failures from the slip yoke as well. I've broken driveshafts is every possible way, shattered u-joints, broke yokes, twisted tubes, you name it. If you are going to beat it; over build it. Use larger yokes, bigger u-joints, largeer diameter tube, more wall thickness. Being that you won't see any offroad you will probaby be fine with a better tube.

Matt

 

[Black P-38]

Cool, thanks guys... I appreciate your experience on this. Hadn't given any thought to wall thickness so thanks for the heads up there too.

Mike