Drivetrain & Transmission

1966-77 Early Bronco Driveshafts

Upgrade your 66-77 Ford Bronco's performance with TOMS OFFROAD's Drivelines collection. Our top-quality drivelines are designed to provide a smooth ride and optimal strength, ensuring you can hit the road with confidence.

To measure a custom driveshaft for your early Bronco, follow these simple steps:

  1. Get the Bronco Ready:

    Park your Bronco on a flat surface with the suspension at its normal height. Use wheel chocks to keep it in place, and set the parking brake.

  2. Find the Measurement Points:

    Look for the fixed yoke on the transfer case and the yoke on the rear differential (or front differential if you're measuring the front driveshaft).

  3. Grab the Right Tools:

    You'll need a tape measure or a special driveshaft measuring tool. Make sure the tape measure is in good condition and long enough for the job.

  4. Measure from Yoke to Yoke:

    Measure from the centerline of the front U-joint yoke to the centerline of the rear U-joint yoke.

  5. Write Down the Measurement:

    Double-check your measurement to make sure it's accurate, then write it down.

  6. Think About Other Factors:

    Consider the driveshaft's operating angle, suspension travel, and make sure there's enough play to accommodate these factors.

By following these steps, you'll get an accurate measurement for a custom driveshaft, ensuring a perfect fit and great performance for your early Bronco.

Frequently Asked Questions

What driveshaft does the early Ford Bronco use?

The early Ford Bronco uses two driveshafts, a front shaft connecting the transfer case to the Dana 30 or 44 front axle, and a rear shaft connecting the transfer case to the Ford 9-inch rear axle. Both are conventional CV U-joint driveshafts. Shaft length will vary depending what transmission is used. Early production Broncos used what's called a "clevland" style driveline ujoint, which isn't supported in the aftermarket these days. The more common "Spicer" style is still commonly used. These take a standard 1310 ujoint and repacement parts are available. If converting from the "clevland" style, the transfer case yoke will need to be swapped to the "Spicer" style before applying a new driveshaft.

How do I remove the front driveshaft on an early Ford Bronco?

Removing the front driveshaft on an early Bronco involves marking the flange orientation for reinstallation reference, unbolting the U-joint straps or flange bolts at both the transfer case and front axle yokes, and sliding the shaft free. Support the shaft while removing the last bolts to prevent dropping it. Inspect the U-joints for wear while the shaft is out.

How do I know if my early Bronco driveshaft needs replacing?

A worn early Bronco driveshaft typically shows symptoms including a clunking noise when accelerating or decelerating, vibration at highway speeds, or visible slop in the U-joints when checked by hand. Grab the driveshaft and try to rotate it by hand with the truck in park, any notable play indicates worn U-joints or slip yoke wear that should be addressed.

What U-joint size does the early Ford Bronco driveshaft use?

Early Bronco driveshafts typically use a 1310 series U-joint, which is the standard small Ford U-joint size. High-performance or heavily lifted builds may benefit from upgrading to a 1350 series U-joint for added strength, which requires matching yokes at the transfer case and axle. Tom's Offroad carries replacement U-joints and complete driveshaft assemblies for the early Bronco.

Do I need a new driveshaft when I lift my early Ford Bronco?

A mild 2.5" lift on an early Bronco usually doesn't require driveshaft replacement, as the slip yoke usually hase enough travel to accomodate the lift. Lifts above 2.5 inches will require a longer drive shaft to reach. In additon, any lift creates a steeper driveshaft angles that accelerate U-joint wear and cause vibration. Any lift will benefit from leaf spring shims to correct operating angles.

SHOP NOW