rear drive shaft, which one.

[Riverology]

Living in a small town, I don't have anyone who I trust to make me a good replacement. I'd rather just buy one and am not averse to the $370 retail price tag as I am a silly fool (as evidenced by my purchase of an 89 van) and would rather not dick around with potentially low quality custom work.

SO, I've found two sources online, both roughly $370 inc shipping and was wondering if anyone had any comment as to which of the two would be best. Probably a silly question as they are both backed by warranty. But WTH, asking anyway.

Provenforce VS Powertrain?

[Riverology]

Went with ProvenForce outta MN. $350 inc shipping, 12 month warranty. If it's a piece O, I'll let you know. Sure it'll be fine.

[originalkwyjibo]

I had no idea these were available aftermarket other than custom made. Post pics when you get. I'm sure I'm not the only who's curious about this option.

[Riverology]

What the hell. So obviously I have no idea of what I'm doing here. Help/reassurance would be appreciated.
My new rear driveshaft has arrived. Much beefier and with replaceable u-joints of course.
It's longer than the old one...but both appear now to be too short?

Maybe this thread belongs in the basic knowledge thread? Something simple is eluding me here I know.

Headed back out to see if I'm crazy or just stupid....

[Riverology]

OK, just stupid. Thought that was a fixed shaft...guess I'll be learning a lot of little stupid stuff now. Here it is installed and of course fits perfect. Glad I didn't send it back LOL
driveshft.jpg

[Riverology]

It's not backwards or anything silly is it??? Now gotta go see if she'll come out of 4x4 and how she runs.

[originalkwyjibo]

There is a slip joint in the middle of the shaft that allows it to change length as the rear axle moves up and down. On a new shaft it will be a tight fit and require some force to lengthen enough to bolt in.

Edit:Apparently I type slowly. You got it figured out before I posted.

[Riverology]

yeah thanks for that Original, it was too stiff to move by hand, but snuged right up when tightening. It's gonna be an adventure...