Is this still useable?

[Steve Webb]

When I got the propshaft off and had a good look at it I spotted that the front was damaged due to it being run without a donut. Nothing major looking, but one of the prongs was bent:

http://www.berlinasportivo.com/forumpics/project_gtv/prop4.jpg

http://www.berlinasportivo.com/forumpics/project_gtv/prop5.jpg

So do you think its possible to bend it back into shape and use? Or would it be dangerous/out of balance?

Cheers

[rumbler]

Just get its correct shape and use it. You can't feel the balance at high revs...

In most cases the shaft is out of balance when you pull it out from the car...

The point is you have to sign before removal and put everything in its original place to avoid balance issue. If you didn't sign or can't put everything in its place as before you remove them; then I can say you will have to face with balancing.

Good luck for you.

[Steve Webb]

I think the main issue with these prop-shafts is to make sure you mark them when you split the shaft into two, so they go back together correctly.

I wouldn't have thought these prop-shafts were balanced on the car, (is that even possible for a production car?) more likely just as a built up shaft.

Anyway, new donuts need to be ordered it all needs a damn good clean up.

[rumbler]

Nice project, I am keen and looking forward to hear about this.

About the balance issue:

I really don't know but I was told to do as this way by two different mechanics. I didn't replace the donuts by myself and there was no balancing after the replacement.

In any way I share your opinion and that is the only way that makes sense.