Hi

I am thinking about disconnecting one end of my driveshaft to get it out of the way to get access to a connector. Am I asking for problems because the driveshaft has heavy rust on it? I see 4 bolts to disconnect it. Is the ujoint going to fall apart if I do this? The driveshaft and ujoint work fine but dropping ti will allow me to get both hands up above the transmission.

Thank you

 

If it's that bad, you better not be driving it. These things usually appear to have heavy rust, but in all my years never seen one fall apart. If you pop the u bolts loose, and drop the back end can you get to the O2 sensor connector? If not, pull the whole thing is MY suggestion. You need to mark it if you pull it.

 

Is the ujoint going to fall apart if I do this? sometimes the end caps of the U-joint can come apart and all the needle bearings fall out.. yes it can happen. Depending on the miles you have on them it might be a good time to replace it while you are there...
Otherwise use tape to keep the joint together while you drop the one end of the shaft...
Also keep in mind the drive shaft is keeping the vehicle from rolling away! Once disconnected the rear wheels are free to roll without the tranny locking them... use your e-brake AND chock the wheels on both sides of the tire....

 

I posted with an assumption, and that was my fault regarding the OP question. If you plan on keeping the car, replace the U joints is a good idea. I'd also suggest replace with ones that can be greased.

 

Thank all of you for your responses. You guys are great.

I do plan on keeping it a long time

Take care