I have a on going problem with my 99 gmc sonoma. The drive shaft is not well balanced. It is a three piece shaft, could I replace it with a older model straight drive shaft with no problem?
NO. The truck is designed with a multi-piece shaft because of the distance from the back of the transmission to the rear end. The simple and easy fix is sadly or should I say the expensive way is to take it to a drive line specialist. Sad to tell you this but even as a qualified mechanic I would at least consult a drive line shop. You may have a bent shaft or a shaft that has thrown a balance pad. A balance pad is a small square of thick metal welded on the side of the shaft as a 'counter balance.' If this is the problem a new unit or a new or re-balance is necessary. You may also have driven over something and put a slight bend in one of the pieces of the unit.
You will need to remove the hanger for the steady bearing because the one piece can hit on it, especially if you put something in the box. Other than that, it shouldn't be a problem if you can find one the right length. Hope this helps.
Answers & Comments
NO.
The truck is designed with a multi-piece shaft because of the distance from the back of the transmission to the rear end.
The simple and easy fix is sadly or should I say the expensive way is to take it to a drive line specialist. Sad to tell you this but even as a qualified mechanic I would at least consult a drive line shop. You may have a bent shaft or a shaft that has thrown a balance pad. A balance pad is a small square of thick metal welded on the side of the shaft as a 'counter balance.' If this is the problem a new unit or a new or re-balance is necessary. You may also have driven over something and put a slight bend in one of the pieces of the unit.
Best of it. Gary
You will need to remove the hanger for the steady bearing because the one piece can hit on it, especially if you put something in the box. Other than that, it shouldn't be a problem if you can find one the right length. Hope this helps.