We're about done with our buddy's SAS project and are trying to get a front driveline for it. Here's a couple of options we have. He still has the IFS front shaft. He also has access to a non CV driveshaft off of a '91 FJ80. I took his truck down to the local shop and the owner said to definitely go with an '85 driveshaft because of the bolt pattern and CV. These are hard to find around here.

There used to be a guy locally who could clearance IFS CV's to work in the SAS, but he doesn't do 'em anymore. My bud is leaning toward getting a brand new shaft from Tom Woods, which is quite a bit more $$$. Any reason to not try and make the non CV FJ80 shaft work? How's about suggestions on hogging out the IFS shaft to work with the SAS? Haven't a clue on how much material to grind off... Is one better than the other for this application?

Any driveline shop should be able to clearance your IFS CV joint. But since you live in my area, you could give Driveline Express a call. 503-283-0383 They've clearanced several CVs for me with good results.

There is an issue with the bolt pattern on the front driveline, but I can't quite remember if the
85 and the IFS use the same bolt pattern. I think they do. It's the rear CV, which I used, that uses a different bolt pattern and requires a different or redrilled flange to convert it for front driveline use.

Hopefully, you have a high pinion diff and/or a duel T-case, because the CV, clearanced or not, will likely bind up when he articulates. You may end up having to put limiting straps on it.

A CV is really nice if you want to go faster than 10mph in 4WD, but if you want maximum flex and don't have HP or Duel T-case, you'll likely really need a non-CV shaft with good U-joints.

Good luck.

You want an 85 front CV shaft in the rear of your truck. You dont necessarily need the CV up front. The non-cv is going to get more flex and angle than a CV shaft. Most guys who do the SAS or a lift take the front CV (if it is an 84-85) and put it in the rear while using a regular single cardan driveshaft in the front. Most times you are not going more than 25 MPH with the front engaged, so the balance and quality of the shaft is not as important as the rear. Spend your money on the rear shaft. Just make sure the front one is bombproof, especially if you dont have a hi-pinion. A lot of guys build a homebrew shaft out of 1/4" box tube. A cheap and durable way to go, but totally out of balance.

Good Luck!

Kurt G.

A lot of guys just get their IFS driveshaft modified. Jessie at High Angle does them all the time. He modifies them with long splines for the increased travel yet you don't have to fool around with your bolt pattern.

Maybe most of your buds, but I would beg to differ on 'most guys'. Most grab an 85 CV for the rear AND the front in my herd. But then, we go far faster in Colorado in 4wd than 10 mph in the winter.

There is a tech article in the archives on clearancing the IFS CV yourself. Nothing wrong with a clearanced IFS CV.

Thank you all for the posts. I guess what it comes down to is how fast he's gonna be driving in 4wd. Sounds like the CV shaft is the way to go. Bill, thanks for pointing out the article - I just did a noob no no. Search first, ask question later! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" />

Ah, kind knave, but this is not the barbarian sailor 4x4 site whose name shall not be spoken, nor e'er shall it be. We do not bloody the poor n00b, neither with pike nor sword nor <expletive deleted>.

Besides, the article is a mite buried!

LOL! Yeah, if I asked this question there, I'd be a member of the "band" in no time <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Yeah, that article was just a tad buried - good info though! Thanks again to you and everyone who replied! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />