Replacing the Rear Drive Shaft in a Jeep Cherokee
After installing a Slip Yoke Eliminator kit in her NP231 transfer case, Jenny needed a different drive shaft in the rear of her Jeep Cherokee. The SYE requires a CV shaft like the one used in the front of the Cherokee. In fact, with her set up, a front shaft actually fit.
However the front drive shaft was at its fullest extension to connect up in the rear. So, if there was any pay at all in the splines, the drive shaft would vibrate. Finding a used shaft in good enough condition to run smooth was proving to be a challenge. Also the added abuse from off road driving made the choice of a stock front shaft no so good in the rear.
After much research, she decided to try a custom made shaft from Adam’s Drive Shaft. She also liked their skull themed logo.
There was no measuring involved. She simply sent them the specs of her Jeep along with the Pay Pal payment. A few days later the shaft arrived.
To remove the old shaft, I removed the four bolts at the rear diff and the four at the transfer case. These all use 8mm hex heads. I have found that the Craftsman 8mm hex wrench is the only one in my tool box that fits the bolts properly. My local Sears store rarely stocks these however. I bought Jenny one and made it into a necklace for her to take when she goes off road.
The Adam’s shaft is much heavier than the stock shaft indicating that it is made form stronger material. It was also just a tad longer. I did not measure it, I just set it in place and tested that it fit perfectly.
I elected not to use the 12 point bolts they sent since I have standardized on the six pint bolts. I will at a later time swap to the twelve pint bolts on both ends so that it will be easier to find a wrench that fits.
With the bolts tight, I took it for a short test run. It seems to turn freely and smoothly. I will have to wait until I can get it up to speed to evaluate the balance. I saw a couple of small weights welded to the shaft so I expect it to run smooth.
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