Re: [Chrysler300] Driveshaft "clunk" on 1957 300C

Hello All -

Barely a year and 1,000 miles after a comprehensive restoration on my
late father's 1957 Chrysler 300C, I am noticing a pretty loud "clunk"
and "jerk" when initially engaging a gear (either R or D) from neutral,
and also when the transmission shifts from 2nd to 3rd under light
throttle. Inspection underneath shows that the rear (conventional)
U-joint is nice and tight (it was replaced during the restoration), and
there is minimal backlash from the ring and pinion gears. However, the
noise definitely seems to be coming from the front driveshaft joint (the
ball & trunnion type) which was also replaced during the restoration,
and there is considerable rotational play (1/4" - 1/2") at that joint
connecting to the transmission. The rubber boot around the joint
precludes visualization of any play in that joint, so I can't tell where
the looseness is occurring. The long hollow driveshaft really
amplifies the clunk and rings like a bell! I can't think of any reason
for that joint to have degraded so significantly in such a short time
and mileage.

I recall from previous conversations that the "ball & trunnion" joint at
the front of the driveshaft has been a frequent point of concern, and
instead of just replacing that joint with another new one of the same
type, I am wondering if there is a "conversion kit" available whereby I
can convert to a traditional U-joint design.

Any thought and suggestions would be welcome.

Ray Melton Las Cruces, NM 1957 Chrysler 300C cvt White/Gauguin
S/N 3N572517