universal joint trouble

[324darrin]

A bit of back ground. My Darrin has a 324 Olds and a Hydra-Matic from 1956. The driveline was shortened and the stock Darrin u-joint was used on the differential end. I just left NAPA in an attempt to acquire a new u-joint but they were not able to help. Nothing in their books showed anything that would work. The caps measure an even 1 inch in diameter and the length from cap to cap is 3.125". The caps are plain and do not require retaining clips. Does anyone have an idea where I can get one of these elusive u-joints.  Thanks, Steve

[darrin145]

My son in law manages a NAPA store here in Syracuse, NY. I just talked to him, he mentioned # 534G or# 507. His info lists the 534G as an automatic joint which measures slightly larger than yours but the 507 which is listed for a manual is right on dimension wise. Seems like they would've used the front yoke and part of the shaft from the Olds to mate to the rear of the Darrin shaft so both front and rear joints should be readily available. You might also try a driveshaft specialist like Fleetpride. Let us know how you make out.

Gary

[324darrin]

My search found no u-joints from NAPA or anywhere else using a part number 507 that had the correct dimensions. The 507's listed from NAPA (there were three) were combination units where the cap to cap measured two different widths. While the caps on one width were 1", the caps on the other width were 1.125". Moog uses the 507 part number but the dimensions are not even close. The search continues. K F Parts has one listed that they claim will fit but show no dimensions. I called and left a message this morning but no answer yet. 

[MarkH]

Since you have the stock rear u-joint, I'm guessing someone here should know the part number.
Lacking any progress in that direction, if you have a driveshaft shop in reasonable driving distance I'll bet they can sort out what you've got in minutes, maybe even over the phone if your joint has a number on it somewhere.

[324darrin]

The only mark on the u-joint is a winged W. Wagner? The driveline shop idea is a good one. I thought this would be easy but have to remember that the car is an orphan. Thanks for all the input. Steve

[darrin502]

I put a 1954 331 cady  in mine with a 53 olds hydro, I tried to use the Darrin rear end but with a 455 to one gear the engine was screaming at 42 mph. I had to install a ford 8” with a 269 gear and it is a cruiser now and the wheel bolt pattern is the same. Of course I had to narrow the rear end.
First gear down shift can be hard at times.
Lee

[joefrazer]

KF used the equivalent of the Spicer 5-153X unit in their cars so that's what should fit. If the 5-153X doesn't fit then someone probably changed the yokes.

[324darrin]

I've ordered the u-joint through Willow Run K F Parts. The difference of .006 in cap measurement might be because my micrometer is ancient but we will see if it fits. Will keep you posted. I'm pretty sure that the rearend is original to the car and have never seen it in action but I will know eventually if it is a viable combination. It was 49 years ago when it was last driven. I have lots of work to do before it is road worthy. Having a blast resurrecting it.  Steve

[darrin502]

Hi 324 darrin
I am the new director of the Darrin registry, I assume your car is 324. If it is are you Gary?
If not can you contact me at leeabrahams@cox.net so I can get you in the registry if you want to.
Thanks
Lee
Here is an Ebay link to U joints maybe it can help.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/283505264294?ul_noapp=true

[324darrin]

Steve here. My Darrin was the third one made. It has an Olds 324 in it. Sorry for the confusion. Finally procured the correct u-joint. All is well. Thanks

[jake]

I have a custom one - not sure what to do with it..

It was in a the car in the 70's. hooked up to a v8