Driveshaft Length?

[Labora]

How far into the tailshaft does the yoke need to be? I have about 3.3 inches inside with the car having weight on the rear suspension at a slight rake. (Front Higher)

This is in my 94 with a 351/AOD, I was previously using this drive shaft with a 302/T5 it is a FMS aluminum one so I was wanting to reuse it.


Below the blue line is where it is at right now with it in the car.

[Strychnine]

I wouldn't worry quite as much about how much is outside, but how much is inside.

If you are still in doubt there is a simple method to check for proper length and slip yoke engagement. With the car at ride height - suspension loaded, put a mark on the slip yoke at the edge of the transmission tailshaft seal. Then disconnect the driveshaft at the rear from the pinion yoke. Push the driveshaft front until the slip yoke bottoms out inside of the transmission and put another mark on the slip yoke at the edge of the transmission tailshaft seal. Now measure the distance between the two lines and you will find it is approximately 1". Approximately 1" of slip yoke travel is what you want to have

[Labora]

I will have to take that second measurement tonight. I have 3 Ford driveshafts in my garage and this one has the longest yoke so I am probably safe but want to be sure.