someotherguy
I'm Awesome
You're supposed to always use new u-bolts becasue they're torque-to-yield. Regardless, that degree of rust although severe, is pretty common on them, even in non-rust belt areas! These are from a Texas truck:You must be registered for see images attach
Didn't get as far as I'd hoped. Figured I'd have the axle shafts changed already, and therefore the drums, shoes, differential inspected. Nope, not there yet. I did verify that the driveshaft is too long. I don't think these can be shortened; at least not locally. One wheel is a nice aluminum job with a poor tire, the other is a steelie with a crap tire.
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The non-axle items.
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Why we don't re-use U-bolts. GM says they have to be replaced no matter what; I can't say I understand that at least when they're in good condition. But around here, they're never in good condition. The bracket it bolts through holds dreck that rots 'em near the ends of the U-bolts.
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A great example of why those u-bolt flip kits are a good idea. No more collection spots for mud and moisture to sit.
As far as shortening that driveshaft, I'm pretty sure it's all aluminum, with a wrap of some composite sort of material - perhaps for strength, also possibly for sound deadening? I haven't personally experienced it, but I've read of others where the wrap has failed and the driveshaft underneath is fine. Others have had the wrap fail because the driveshaft corroded and the swelling cracked the wrap.
Richard