How to Measure a Driveshaft

Some vehicles come in a variety of configurations (i.e., single cab, crew cab, etc.), which means several driveshafts of varying lengths may be available for the same model. And that can make ordering a replacement driveshaft confusing.

How do you know which one is right for your application? One way is to measure your existing driveshaft and compare it to the dimensions in the product description.

Of course, in order to do that, you have to have access to the original product description and the driveshaft length. In other words, you have to know the proper length for the driveshaft the vehicle had when it was built.

Exceptions to this would be those times when a vehicle is being or has been modified by lengthening or shortening the frame or even installing a different type of transmission with a shorter or longer output shaft and housing.

Apart from the kinds of changes being discussed above, simply measuring your original driveshaft will give you the proper driveshaft length. But you have to know how to take that measurement the right way.

Driveshaft Measurement How-To

Measuring your original driveshaft is a fairly straightforward affair. For the most accurate results, it’s best to remove the driveshaft from the vehicle. But if you choose to leave the driveshaft installed, be sure the vehicle is at ride height before taking any measurements.

Exactly where you measure the driveshaft will depend on its design. Below, you’ll find instructions for measuring driveshafts that have a slip yoke and u-joint. There are also instructions for driveshafts that have two flange yokes.

How to Measure a Driveshaft with a Slip Yoke and U-joint

Note: Before getting started, you must review the product description for the driveshaft you’re considering. Some parts manufacturers will take the measurements at different points than those listed in the instructions below. For example, the measurement might be from the tip of the yoke to the middle of the u-joint or from weld-to-weld.

1. Place one end of the tape measure near the middle of the front u-joint.
2. Place the other end of the tape measure near the middle of the rear u-joint.
3. Note the measurement on the tape measure to determine the length of the driveshaft (without the slip yoke).

If you need to measure the length of the driveshaft with the slip yoke, perform these additional steps:

1. Place one end of the tape measure near the tip of the slip yoke.
2. Place the other end of the tape measure near the middle of the slip yoke’s u-joint.
3. Note the measurement on the tape measure to determine the length of the slip yoke.
4. Add the measurements taken in steps 3 and 6 to determine the overall length of the driveshaft, including the slip yoke.

The following video demonstrates the steps listed above:

How to Measure a Driveshaft with Two Flange Yokes

1. Place one end of the tape measure near the end of the front flange.
2. Place the other end of the tape measure near the end of the rear flange.
3. Note the measurement on the tape measure to determine the length of the driveshaft.

The following image demonstrates measuring the front driveshaft for a 1998 Chevy Astro. As you can see, the measurement is about 30.25 inches, which is the same as what’s listed in the product description above.

Consult the Product Information

The instructions listed above describe typical methods for measuring a driveshaft. In some instances, however, the manufacturer of the part will specify a different measurement strategy. For example, in the image below, the length is measured from weld-to-weld.

You’ll usually find the measurement strategy listed in the product description or in the product image (like the example above).

Do You Need to Measure Your Driveshaft Before Ordering a Replacement?

In many cases, no, you won’t even need to take measurements. If you know the specifics of your vehicle, there’s a good chance you won’t need to measure your driveshaft when ordering a replacement.

Instead, simply read the fitment information in the product description.

For instance, the driveshaft below is for a 2001 Toyota Tacoma with an automatic transmission. This part will NOT fit the same model with a manual transmission.

When ordering a new driveshaft, the most important advice of all is to read the product description.

Get a High-Quality Replacement Driveshaft

In addition to the driveshaft’s length, you must determine if it fit in your car. You cannot install an incompatible driveshaft in your car. Luckily, it’s easy to find a compatible replacement driveshaft here at CarParts.com.

CarParts.com makes shopping for the right driveshaft for your car effortless and trouble-free. Simply plug your vehicle’s details into our vehicle selector to find compatible products in our deep catalog. If you have any questions about our driveshafts, such as their fit and price, our helpful customer service team is available 24/7. Placing an order for a driveshaft takes only several clicks, and we deliver your new parts to your home. If you live in the continental US and send your order before noon ET, you can get your new driveshaft in as little as two business days.

When you need replacement driveshafts, look no further than CarParts.com. Choose from our selection of driveshafts, and enjoy long-lasting performance today.

Products Mentioned in this Guide

Driveshaft U-Joint