u-joints

[grantf]

can i replace the u-joints on my 78 280z.

the manuals say no, but I just replaced one on one of the half shafts with no problem at all. thing is there is another bad one on the drive shaft (propeller shaft). do I need to replace the whole thing???

P.S. I have a 5 speed.

Edited September 22, 2008 by grantf

[sblake01]

All 280Zs came stock with non-replacable u joints on the driveshaft. You'll have to replace the whole thing. You can use a 240-260 driveshaft so that, in the future, you would be able to just replace the u joints if need be.

[Arne]

Just make sure that you don't get a driveshaft from a '70 or '71, as they are about an inch shorter than all other US market S30s.

[grantf]

thanks for the info, but just to make sure, will a 240 or 260 shaft fit a 78 5 speed tranny. I did call around and there is a place in georgetown (Seattle) called drive-line northwest, they said they specialize in non serviceable shafts for BMW, Mercedes, and all other imports, they said they might be able to service it (cost $30 (u-joint)+ $15.50(service) & balancing. I know of two people who have used them and say they do good work. Any thoughts?

[grantf]

sorry I forgot to mention, this site RULLES!!

[Arne]

1.) Yes, the '72-74 240/260Z driveshaft is fine with a 5 speed.

2.) If the driveline shop says they can do it, they're probably right. Worth taking it in and having them look at it in person, definitely.

3.) Yes, this site does RULE!

[sblake01]

If the driveline shop says they can do it, they're probably right. Worth taking it in and having them look at it in person, definitely.

I didn't mention that option since I thought it would be more costly than just buying a used 72-74 S30 driveshaft. I actually had Inland Empire Driveline build me a driveshaft for my 78 about 10 yrs ago. It has serviceable u joints but is a bit on the costly side compared to a stock driveshaft.

[grantf]

sblake01 thanks, the older drive shaft is still an option.I did not consider it a possibility tell you mentioned it. so my options are the drive line shop or an older drive shaft if I can find one near me soon.