Recently aquired a shortened prop - only to find the flange is the wrong size for the Sierra diff flange - it is about 1" smaller. The shaft itself is the perfect length.
My initial thought was to get the flange + a section of prop off the original sierra prop, and get one of those specialist 'autoprop' firms to replace the smaller flange and matching section of prop, weld and balance.
Then I had another idea - is the UJ easyish to take apart? and if so, could they be swapped? And if they are interchangeable, would that then give me an unbalanced prop?

What would you knowledgeable types suggest?

See the pic for clarification....

Thanking you in advance, Steve.

Please read other question lower down this thread...

[Edited on 29/6/09 by stevegough]

Now you've told me that my Atlas prop won't fit my new XR4x4 flange, I'll be swapping flanges. If mine are rebuildable Hardy Spicer type joints like yours, I'll be taking then apart and swapping them. Balancing will not be an issue,

So disappointed...

I was expecting to see a photo of one of these fitted to your car:

No reason why you cant change the flanges over, as long as the UJ's are both the same, (knowing Ford they probably will be). Bit of a fiddley job but do-able. Best if you can get hold of a new UJ repair kit. Cheers Ray

If either of the joints have the bearings staked in you will have no chance without proper machinery unless they are held in with circlips then should be no prob.

[Edited on 23/6/09 by fazerruss]

quote:

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Originally posted by owelly
Now you've told me that my Atlas prop won't fit my new XR4x4 flange, I'll be swapping flanges. If mine are rebuildable Hardy Spicer type joints like yours, I'll be taking then apart and swapping them. Balancing will not be an issue,

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thanks for the info - the newer one is a circlip type - the sierra one is not - I suspect it is a 'staked' one I will get a wire brush to the rust so the dog can see the rabbit, then see how it is fitted. Peteff makes it sound so easy!! I am not sure the UJs are exactly the same, Ray - will re- measure when cleaned up.

Steve.

Even if one is staked, as long as the cups, bearing and X piece are the same size its still do-able. You would need to use circlips on the prop part, and stake the flange part. Despite what others may tell you staking the UJ is no big deal, once the lot is assembled you can stake the thing yourself, just get a decent punch and peen the side down. I have done this on many cars. Cheers Ray

Alternative has just presented itself - is it possible to change the input flange which is mounted on the diff itself?? - I have just fitted the diff, and on close inspection, the flange looks removeable.

Steve

[Edited on 28/6/09 by stevegough]

be careful swapping input pinions i seem to remember ther is a crush tube that needs to be replaced

bump.