Home made driveshaft

[2xtreme]

I am going up to 6" of lift in the near future and will need to lengthen my stock driveshaft in the process. I was just going to take it down and have it done, but I was thinking maybe I could do it myself. I just need to extend it a few inches. Does anyone have any experience with this? is it just a matter of cutting and welding back together?

I thought I would cut the shaft (close to the transfer case end) and weld in a new section of tube there. Can I do it this way or do I need a whole new tube?

Thanks for any info or experience,

Michael

[juicexj24]

you could do that but the shaft still has to be balanced. If not your going to have some vibes, big time. Juice

[ChuckD]

You can not extend a Drive shaft without replacing the entire tube. You will end up with a pretzle where you rewelded it. Your best bet is to find a MT DS, it is longer and will work well with your Application. Also look into the extend slip yoke, it only adds about 5/8" but it does reduce the binding on the ujoint.

[2xtreme]

I have the YJ style slip yoke and it works great.

how much longer is a MT drive shaft? Any particular ones I need to look for? Does it matter which rear axle or MT??

Thanks for the help,
Michael

[vintagespeed]

If you're going to do the cutting/welding yourself, do the whole tube. Why cut & weaken the shaft to save yourself 10 mins welding time?

Once you weld it, you can take it to a local driveshaft shop & have it balanced for about $25-50.