Frequently Asked Questions
What causes a drive shaft to vibrate while driving?
Drive shaft vibration typically results from imbalance, worn U-joints, or misalignment after vehicle modifications. At Clutch and Drive Shaft, we perform complete diagnostics to identify the exact cause and restore smooth operation through repair or balancing services.How does custom drive shaft fabrication work for lifted trucks?
Custom fabrication involves precise measuring of your lifted truck's new driveline geometry, building a shaft with high-quality materials, then balancing and performance testing. This ensures proper angles and eliminates vibration issues common in modified vehicles.When should you shorten or lengthen a drive shaft?
Drive shaft modification is needed when you lift or lower your vehicle, change suspension components, or swap transmissions. Incorrect length causes binding, vibration, or component failure. At Clutch and Drive Shaft, we measure, modify, and balance to match your vehicle's new configuration.What's the difference between front and rear differential repair?
Both involve rebuilding gears and bearings, but front differentials in 4WD vehicles often include CV joints and more complex configurations. Rear differentials handle primary power transfer. Complete diagnostics determine which system needs attention and the extent of rebuilding required.Can a drive shaft be balanced after modification?
Yes, professional balancing is essential after any drive shaft modification or repair. Clutch and Drive Shaft uses precision equipment to balance custom-built and shortened shafts, eliminating vibration and ensuring smooth power transfer at all speeds.What makes fracking truck drive shafts different from standard ones?
Fracking drive shafts are built for extreme conditions with heavy-duty materials to handle auxiliary power systems and constant high-torque operation. They require specialized fabrication for hydraulic fracturing equipment and must withstand harsh industrial environments that would destroy standard components.How often do 4WD transfer cases need service?
Transfer cases should be serviced every 30,000 to 50,000 miles or according to manufacturer guidelines. At Clutch and Drive Shaft in Shreveport, we recommend more frequent inspections for off-road vehicles due to increased stress on driveline components.What affects the cost of custom drive shaft fabrication?
Cost depends on shaft length, material quality, number of pieces needed, and complexity of your vehicle's configuration. Heavy-duty commercial applications and specialized fracking truck outfitting require stronger materials and additional engineering, increasing fabrication costs.Why do lifted trucks need drive shaft modifications?
Lifting changes driveline angles, causing U-joint binding, vibration, and premature failure if the original shaft remains. Professional lengthening or custom fabrication restores proper geometry, ensuring reliable power transfer and preventing costly damage to your drivetrain.What's included in a complete differential rebuild?
A full rebuild includes replacing bearings, seals, and gears, inspecting the housing for damage, and setting proper gear contact patterns. Clutch and Drive Shaft performs thorough diagnostics first to determine if rebuilding or targeted repairs best suit your differential's condition.Do heavy-duty trucks require different driveline maintenance?
Yes, commercial and industrial trucks experience greater stress and require more frequent inspections of U-joints, carrier bearings, and differentials. Specialized maintenance prevents downtime and extends component life in demanding applications like fleet vehicles and fracking operations.How is drive shaft strength tested after fabrication?
Custom shafts undergo material strength verification and precision balancing to ensure they meet torque requirements for your specific application. At Clutch and Drive Shaft, we perform performance testing to confirm smooth operation before installation on your vehicle.
