I have some vibration and noise coming from my driveshaft. I am buying a used one and I was wondering how difficult it is going to be to replace the old one.

Is this something I need to take to my area Rotary Mechanic, or is this something I can do with a couple of jack stands and a friend.

Just for the record, I am not an experienced mechanic, but am not afraid to get dirty and take my time. I bought the car so that I could learn to work on them, and not be intimidated when something goes haywire.

thanks,
heffner

 

you can do it.
While your down there you'll have to remove the exaust system just after the down pipe or the pre-cat catalytic converter (Also you might have to buy a exaust flange gasket about 12 bucks)

Unbolt the flange and remove the gasket carefully. If not the gasket will probably break.

Also torque down the bolts for the drive shaft!
This **** is important. I dont have the spec. But I think its about 20lbs. Some say its not a big deal.

Trust me its not a big deal until you snap a bolt while driving then now you have more to replace then just a bolt.

 

thanks

 

I just Changed mine this weekend and I believe the '89 FSM says 36 to 43ft/lbs for those bolts.It really helps to have someone to help you unless you have an impact wrench.The way I did it was get one bolt in a position where I could get a wrench on the nut and kind of jam it against the subframe to help prevent it from turning, then have your helper put the e-brake on and in gear.Then use a breaker bar or I used a 1/2 inch drive rachet to break the bolt loose.Release the brake,take out of gear and repeat for the next three bolts.I tightened mine the same way except with a torque wrench.

 

Thanks Dak, I own an 88 GXL, but the specs should be the same or close shouldn't it. Or would the added horsepower in the 89-91 be a factor.

 

http://www.aaroncake.net/rx-7/driveshaft.htm

 

Perfect, thanks.

 

The vibration from a failing driveshaft, is it all the time or is it intermitant?

I get a vibration @ 70 mph only when I let off the accelerator to maintain a consistant speed above 70 mph, but as soon as I give it more gas the vibration is gone. Does this sound like a failing Driveshaft?

It kind of sounds like air going over a wine bottle...