Questions on driveshaft (ATX vs 5sp)

[etcsho]

I (after a lot of skinned knuckles, cuts, ...) got my right side driveshaft out of my 93ATX today. The inboard boot had a small hole/cut, and had thrown most, if not all, of the grease out of the inboard.

When I compared it to the one I had picked up at NAPA, I noticed the inboard joint of the replacement shaft being having three indentions, while the one I removed from my car was round.

In reviewing the drawings in my service manual, it shows the difference in appearance, plus indicates the automatic has a "tri-plan CV joint". It goes on to say this tri-plan CV joint does not have a removable tripod.

After another trip to my NAPA store, and a second review of his computer, he still shows part number 8372 as the correct shaft; however, this is not the same as the one I removed.

Can anyone tell me, first, if the "tri-plan" joint is stronger, and secondly, will the other type work OK?

I would really like to put the same type back on. Is there any other parts stores anyone would recommend, or is this a trip to the dealer?

 

[Denny]

Since I'm going through some axle issues, I notice that there two designs in the manual here. It makes no mention of which is stronger or whatnot. However the Tri-lobe one does get more grease 4.4oz compared to 3.5oz it says.

My broken axle is a conventional type. Maybe that says something. It was bought as a remanned unit back in February, now five months later it's busted. I wouldn't jump to conclusions over this, but it's something to think about.

 

[Denny]

Sorry, it is a tri-lobe boot design, got a better look today. I don't know if I can pull this off though frown

 

[etcsho]

To update, I have checked with NAPA, Autozone and a Ford dealer. None show that the "tri-plan" type of driveshaft is available anymore.

Does anyone know if the other driveshaft is comparable?

I have calls in to Doug Lewis, but he (along with a lot of others on the list) are at the convention.