drive shaft install tko 500

[mdutton11]

Don't mean to beat a dead horse but ... I've read multiple posts about removing the inner rubber donut on the TKA vs not and the jury is not in. Tremec says optional but not advised. My shaft appears like it will max out clearance without removing it however I am having a heck of a time trying to get it out and little pieces keep breaking off. Worried that if I push it in I will not have enough clearance and will never get it out - doesn't want to go in anyway.

Any tips on getting it out or other ideas?

2019 MV 4 - 302 with Tremec TKO 500, 3 link and 8.8 rear end

[FF33rod]

Bummer. I'm not going to be much help as it came out quite easily for me. I had the same concern as you about pushing it in. From what I recall (2 years ago) it was fairly solid piece of rubber, wondering why it's breaking off. I think I just used needle nose pliers. Have you tried something like a scribe to "stab" it from the side (being careful not to damage the end seal)?

Steve

[mdutton11]

That was my next thought but I wanted some input first. Will be a few days before I get back to it -Thanks!

[Fman]

I used two pairs of needle noise one on each side and that did the trick, maybe spray some WD-40/lube in there to help break it free? I personally would not poke anything in/around the seal, it would not take much to damage the lip and then you are in for a seal replacement. Definitely inspect the seal when done, would be a real bummer to have a leak.

And wait until you try and get the driveline installed, it only gets better:D

[mdutton11]

Yep - two needle nose and some creeping oil. Was trying to put the plyers at 180 degrees but then put them close together and was able to get a section moving... kept going and it came out. PITA - cant wait for the drive shaft install !!. FYI for those who haven't done it, I was wondering how long the donut it - 1 3/4 inch. Good luck

[mdutton11]

Apparently I got lucky - my driveshaft went in after about 30 seconds of wiggle and jiggle.

[mdutton11]

Can someone tell me the bolt size from driveshaft to 8.8 rear end?