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74 CJ Dropping driveshaft for tow dolly

Discussion in 'Intermediate CJ-5/6/7/8' started by rcassettyjr, Mar 19, 2010.

  1. rcassettyjr

    rcassettyjr Member

    I am leaving in the morning to bring home the 74 CJ-6. I am going to pull it 400 miles using a u-haul tow dolly. I am going to drop the rear driveshaft after its on the dolly. I believe everything is original and was wondering if anyone can tell me if the DS uses straps or u-bolts and what size wrench I need for them. I am going to bring an assortment of tools but I can't bring everything and I want to be sure to have the right ones with me.

    Also, I have never towed a vehicle on a dolly that did not have a locking steering column. Do I need to tie off the steering wheel to the seat frame like when you flat tow or will it be OK as is? I am going to be coming down hill most of the way so there will be a lot of braking if that matters.

    Anything else to consider?

    Thanks

    Bob
     
  2. bkd

    bkd Moderator Supreme Staff Member 2022 Sponsor

    seems like if it's on a dolly the front wheels will be strapped on securely and wont let them turn so steering wheel should be fine......my 66 had ubolts and I think they were in the 3/8" range for the nut size
    Jim
     
  3. 1970CJ6

    1970CJ6 new mexico air

    It should have ubolts. 1/2" wrench.

    Andrew
     
  4. rcassettyjr

    rcassettyjr Member

    Thanks. Now I just have to find a set of tires to put on the front that will fit under the u-haul dolly straps. Apparently they are not big enough to fit 33's.

    Thanks

    Bob
     
  5. nwedgar

    nwedgar Now with TBI!

    The wheels will be 5" x 5 1/2" bolt pattern if you find some pre-mounted smaller tires. check out Craigslist in your area.
     
  6. timgr

    timgr We stand on the shoulders of giants. 2022 Sponsor

    Yes, and the holes in the middle have to be big enough to clear the front hubs. I think you are stuck with only early Jeep or Scout wheels. Check your local Jeep forums and clubs - somebody local might be able to loan you a pair of wheels for the trip.
     
  7. bkd

    bkd Moderator Supreme Staff Member 2022 Sponsor

    I aired down my tires to 4-6lbs and the straps worked fine (33/12.50/15)
    Jim
     
  8. nickmil

    nickmil In mothballs.

    Make sure the rear diff oil is in good shape and at the proper level. Make sure axle bearings are in good shape as well. Dropping the drive shaft is a very good idea.
     
  9. DrDanteIII

    DrDanteIII Master Procrastinator

    Older F-150 rims should work too.
     
  10. rcassettyjr

    rcassettyjr Member

    I snagged a pair of older full size Ford 4wd truck 15" steel rims with 235/75 BFG A/T's at the local rustbucket retirement home (they have an m38a1 and a mid 70's cj5 too). The tires are a little dry rotted and bald but hold air fine and will be good enough for the dolly end of the ride. The wheels are kind of nice I may go back and get another pair, get them all sandblasted, powder coated, and use them when I get the new smaller tires. The hole for the hub opening is very large and the ford had the big internal warn hubs so they should fit over the D30 drive flanges (or am I wrong here). Anyone know what the hole size is supposed to be?

    I am going to try it with the 33's and if they don't fit under the straps comfortably, I will swap on the pair I just bought. I will check the diff fluid quality and level before we hit the highway.

    Thanks for the info. Wish me luck.

    Bob
     
  11. nwedgar

    nwedgar Now with TBI!

    Just measured mine...dana 30 with warn hubs...looks like 4 inches.
     
  12. rcassettyjr

    rcassettyjr Member

    Ok then i hope these fit. I measured the opening and it is just over 3.75"

    Thanks.

    Bob