How much play in prop shaft?

[Chuffmeister]

I've removed the propshaft today so I could replace the UJ's (Mr Heath lied when he said removing the exhaust was the most difficult bit!). New UJ's arrived too. I also noticed that there was a very slight amount of play in the propshaft when it was in the car (rotating it with my hands). How much play should there be?

Cheers
Chuffy

Joint at the rear of gearbox marked-up


Four bolts onto the diff


Prop shaft removed

[Chuffmeister]

I may indeed be talking gibberish... but I'm happy to learn

The propshaft was fitted. I twisted it with two hands and it moved slightly, so I'll assume this is the lash and normal then?

Whilst I'm there, I will also have a go a replacing the oil in the diff and box. what type and how much do I need? Also, are the bolts and nuts used to secure the prop to the diff imperial or metric as in intend to replace them with new ones?

[Chuffmeister]

kris450 said:

On my car at least they were imperial. 3/8" (24 tip) UNF x 1 1/4"

Hope that helps

Will check it out, thanks!

[Chuffmeister]

I've had a look on YouTube at the vids of moving props and mine is nothing like those. I think the car is in neutral. It is literally a very small movement (about 3 degrees... no jokes), so will assume it is gearbox lash. Anyway, dropped UJ's of at local indie with the prop as I don't have a large enough vice to take the joints out. I should hopefully get them both back this week, so can get it reassembled and the engine mounts done ready for the MOT. I may invest in a tin of POR15 and give it the once over before I put them back.