shortening drive shaft question

[MikeJones]

How much tolerance is there in the 12.5" dimension? Should I wait until the engine - tranny are in or is there some flexibility?

Thanks, Mike

[tfalk]

While there is some tolerance, I don't think it's an issue. If you
think about it, the engine/trans are bolted in place, the rear is bolted in
place, the only significant movement should be as the rear suspension
moves up and down in an arc. Biggest problem you would run into might
be a small leak where the driveshaft enters the trans?

What's the reason behind the question?

[Jester]

I think he wants to have it made before the engine goes in. I had mine made at a local driveline shop in a day. Just wait until you have the engine in the car. Give them the measurement from the trans seal and the pinion flange on the rear end and they will know how to size it from there.

[MikeJones]

Yes, I was going to have it done before the engine goes in. Engine is pretty soon so I can wait to make sure it'll fit. Is the 12.5" reasonably close, ie. +/- an eighth or will it vary by more??

Thnaks, Mike

[Detroit Kim]

I have a 302 with tremec 3550 and 3 link set-up.
I used the template supplied by FFR in the manual and it was only just short enough, I would have prefered it 1/2" shorter.
DK