MTFCA Forum

Wondering if I should replace this drive shaft now that it's out of my 1915 roadster. The thrust bearing cut a groove, visible in the photo. I'm installing a modern pinion bearing from Texas T Parts which I assume is the old Fun Projects design.

Phil

If you are asking, replace it. It is possibly 110 years old and that groove will be a weak area.

I think it looks worn where the sleeve sits. Look at the lip at the back end between the pinion and sleeve.
Since he got the sleeve off in 1 piece tells me it's worn.

got10carz wrote: ↑

Mon Feb 03, 2025 10:29 am

I think it looks worn where the sleeve sits. Look at the lip at the back end between the pinion and sleeve.
Since he got the sleeve off in 1 piece tells me it's worn.

While without miking it, does look a bit worn, just the fact that the sleeve came off in one piece does not tell us anything. Depending on what tool that was used to pull it off, such as the Stevens puller, they can be removed in one piece without slitting.

mortier wrote: ↑

Mon Feb 03, 2025 7:36 am

Wondering if I should replace this drive shaft now that it's out of my 1915 roadster. The thrust bearing cut a groove, visible in the photo. I'm installing a modern pinion bearing from Texas T Parts which I assume is the old Fun Projects design.

Phil

I would see how the modern pinion bearing fits. There are two bearing surfaces & the split lock ring. Even if the bearings fit (slip fit?), my guess is that the split lock ring will sit on the groove made by the thrust bearing and that would eliminate the usability of the drive shaft

Thanks for the replies. I agree that a replacement drive shaft would be best.

Phil

New drive shaft is best way to go. Used parts, even if in great condition are still used.

On these, the one has wallowed out key way, and the other was good in all respects, except very close inspection on that used driveshaft shows a deep crack.

That shaft is severely worn in several places. It also has a crack forming. Always look closely at the side walls of the keyways for emerging cracks. Same holds true for axle shafts and steering column shafts as well.

mortier wrote: ↑

Mon Feb 03, 2025 7:36 am

Wondering if I should replace this drive shaft now that it's out of my 1915 roadster. The thrust bearing cut a groove, visible in the photo. I'm installing a modern pinion bearing from Texas T Parts which I assume is the old Fun Projects design.

Phil


IMG_0443.jpg

Replace it. I'm rebuilding the rear axle on my 26, both axle shafts and driveshaft will become wall art. My driveshaft shows less wear than the one you have pictured and it's being replaced. If one weak or questionable component lets go, how many new components will it take with it.

I would replace it if a good new one is available, but with all used parts, even if not in the best condition, I would keep it just in case you need one and no other one is available. Good new reproduction parts are not always available and as the hobby dies out over the years might not be available when you need one. Also A broken drive shaft makes a good knocker puller for the rear wheel. You just back off the nut and screw in the driveshaft end so that the end of the driveshaft is tight against the end of the axle. Then jack up the wheel on the opposite side but leave the wheel you are wanting to pull on the ground. Leave the parking brake off but choc the wheels so the car does not roll. Then whack the end of the broken driveshaft with a hard hammer such as one made of babbitt. Try to hit it squarely so nothing breaks off.
Norm

DanTreace wrote: ↑

Mon Feb 03, 2025 4:40 pm

On these, the one has wallowed out key way, and the other was good in all respects, except very close inspection on that used driveshaft shows a deep crack.


IMG_2530.jpeg



crack in threads.jpg

Dan,

I had an axle shaft do the same thing. It was split in a dead straight line, from one end to the other.

Look at it this way....there will never be an easier time to replace the shaft. The cost is modest and they are available. Don't forget the drive shaft bushing up by the universal or the universal itself.