So I have been noticing lately that a vibration has been developing worse over time. But recently it has been getting bad and my tail shaft has developed a leak. I changed the rear transmission seal but it has been coming back. Today while riding down the interstate my seal came out and started spraying trans fluid all over the place. I was lucky because it happened about two miles from where a friend of mine at a Pep Boys mechanic. I have searched all over the net and have yet to find a drive shaft spacer. I actually could go about 1.5". I have found spacers for Jeeps but nothing for '97-'03 F150's. Does anyone know where I might be able to look or should I just get a custom drive shaft made? I know a drive shaft will cost a whole lot more than a spacer. Any input is welcome.



~C.C.~

 

Oh and by the way I have a rear seal with the dust cover. If it were a regular transmission seal the gap would be about an inch and a half wider.

~C.C.~

 

Noone!?!?! Oh well. I guess i'll have to do what I usually do. I'll just have to make my own. Now I just need to find some 3" round stock.

 

Is your truck an 8.8 or 9.75? I know they make spacers for 8.8 in a mustang. 5/8 is most likely the thickest you will find...
Try Randy's Ring and Pinion,they have a lot of things for driveline concerns

 

I should have asked in my first post...What has been changed from stock to need a spacer. I know that some 4r70w transmissions would spin the tail shaft bushing in them. That could be what has caused your leak

 

I installed a 7.5" Fabtech lift kit and 2" lift hangers. Here is a picture of what it looks like at the transmission.

 

A good welding shop could probably make a spacer. Then there would be the issue of balance and getting it bolted securely. The best option may be to have the driveshaft lengthened. Either way measure carefully so you get it the right length.

 

I think the best fix would be to have a longer shaft made. With your driveshaft being the way it is,it could become a real saftey hazard.

 

Well I made me a spacer and it rides a lot smoother. Its not permantent. Its just to get me by until I get a drive shaft made.

 

yea you're gonna tear up the pinion bearings with more torque on the input

 

It actually doesn't weigh that much beings how its aluminum. It'll be ok. Everyone said I couldn't do it without it having vibrations and I proved that to be wrong. Besides I want to go to a little higher gear anyway to get some of my fuel mileage back with the larger wheels.