Hello NCRS,
First, I did a few searches in this site for restoring drive shafts. A lot of information. I think at this point I've learned that the 1969 drive shaft was extruded and there is a dark stripe along the lenght of the shaft from the extrusion process. 1969 drive shafts were not shot peened. Sandblasting is not the best way to strip them due to heat stress and possible negative effect to the steel (weakening?). Mark the fore and aft ends of the drive shaft where it connects to the universal joint and yokes to be sure it goes back on how it came off. Note location of the drive shaft balance weights.
I'm still wondering what is the best way, process for restoring my drive shaft. I have a L-46 350 with M-21 4-speed? I have the Quanta Products stencil kit and would like to get the drive shaft looking great so that I can stencil it. My half shafts are just beautiful. I sent those to a NCRS friend in NW Washington state to be restored and they look like new. Photo attached.
Drive shaft is still on the car. I can do media blasting 70 grit aluminum oxide, glass bead, or soda blasting. I would have to build jig or tub if soaking in Rust Remover soak is the best way to go. I have not looked up drive shaft restoration companies in the Charlotte, NC area. I'm afraid they might screw it up since not many (if any) get the NCRS finish details right.
Thanks in advance for your patience and advice.
Kevin
First, I did a few searches in this site for restoring drive shafts. A lot of information. I think at this point I've learned that the 1969 drive shaft was extruded and there is a dark stripe along the lenght of the shaft from the extrusion process. 1969 drive shafts were not shot peened. Sandblasting is not the best way to strip them due to heat stress and possible negative effect to the steel (weakening?). Mark the fore and aft ends of the drive shaft where it connects to the universal joint and yokes to be sure it goes back on how it came off. Note location of the drive shaft balance weights.
I'm still wondering what is the best way, process for restoring my drive shaft. I have a L-46 350 with M-21 4-speed? I have the Quanta Products stencil kit and would like to get the drive shaft looking great so that I can stencil it. My half shafts are just beautiful. I sent those to a NCRS friend in NW Washington state to be restored and they look like new. Photo attached.
Drive shaft is still on the car. I can do media blasting 70 grit aluminum oxide, glass bead, or soda blasting. I would have to build jig or tub if soaking in Rust Remover soak is the best way to go. I have not looked up drive shaft restoration companies in the Charlotte, NC area. I'm afraid they might screw it up since not many (if any) get the NCRS finish details right.
Thanks in advance for your patience and advice.
Kevin
Comment