Procedure I - Driveshaft Balance

Two methods of on-the-car driveshaft balancing exist. The first method presented uses standard hose clamps to locate the position of imbalance and the newly available weighted driveshaft bolts to counter the imbalance. Although somewhat of a trial-and-error method, it is a simple procedure requiring a minimum of time and equipment to accomplish good results. If unable to correct persistent vibration with this method, a second method is presented which utilizes strobe-type wheel balancing equipment for precision balancing. Additionally, the driveshaft may be removed and balanced by a sublet shop if deemed necessary. This is recommended for one-piece drivestiafts only.

Driveshaft:

Balance Method 1

1. Install a large screw-type hose clamp 5-10 cm from the rear of the driveshaft tube. Locate clamp head in line with factory balance weight if possible.

2. Mark the driveshaft in four places at 90 degrees intervals, as shown in the illustration. Use the clamp head as position #1.

3. Accelerate driveline to subject speed range and evaluate vibration.

WEIGHTED DRIVESHAFT BOLT:

4. Rotate clamp to other three positions and evaluate vibration at each step. Select best position. If two positions are equally improved, position clamp between these positions. If unable to eliminate vibration, install a second clamp in the same position and evaluate.

5. If no change is detected, rotate clamps in opposite directions slightly and retest. Continue until best location is established. Mark locations with crayon or paint.

6. Confirm results with actual road test. If satisfactory, remove hose clamps and install special weighted bolts to provide identical balancing effect (see illustration).

Standard bolt weight = 13 gram
#2 weighted bolt = 15 gram
#4 " " = 17 gram
#6 " " = 19 gram

CAUTION:
Hose clamp must be removed from driveshaft after balancing to prevent possible contact with underside of body at full suspension compression.

Wheel Balancer Pickup:

Balance Method 2

1. With vehicle properly lifted, locate the wheel balancer pickup at the underside of the differential carrier, as shown. The strobe will now flash when the heavy side of the driveshaft is down.

2. Mark the driveshaft with an "X" and an "O" directly opposite each other for reference.
3. Start the engine and accelerate the driveline to the complaint speed range.

4. Shine the strobe light on the marks on the driveshaft. Note the position of the marks. If the strobe equipment has a meter indicating weight, note this reading also.

NOTE:
If the "X" and "O" alternately appear at the same location, the balance of the driveshaft is satisfactory.

NOTE:
On many four-cylinder-engined vehicles, the weight meter may not indicate zero even if the driveshaft balance is correct, due to engine firing pulses.
5. Stop the engine and rotate the driveshaft so that the marks are in the position observed during strobe testing. This position places the heavy side of the driveshaft straight down.

6. Install weighted bolts to upper side to provide proper balance (see Method 1, Step 6.).

This completes Driveshaft Balance Section