Which Came first .... Drive Shaft Question

[res1uqtp]

Ok all this is my first complete rebuild on a bike with a drive shaft. So I've got this beautiful frame in my basement and I'm ready to start reassembling and it dawns on me that before I put together a rolling chassis I should probably ask this question......

Do I need to mount the engine first before I assemble the rear or will I be able finesse it in and mate it to the drive assembly after the rear is already assembled??????

To be honest every rebuild I've done to this point have all been chain driven ... never came up before. Thanks in advance guys.

[79XS11F]

The engine can go in after the whole rolling chassis is complete.
Rob

[bikerphil]

It can be done either way. It's easier if the engine goes in first, then the driveshaft/swingarm. JMHO

[TADracer]

third option

There is a third option. Make up the rolling chassis then install the engine without the middle drive. Gives some wiggle room at the drive shaft flange while fitting the engine in the frame. Then install the middle drive.

I have done all 3 ways and find no one way much better than the other, especially if you have a helper or two.

[Ivan]

Well, the hardest way would be if you pulled the driveshaft out of the front U joint yoke. That is a real pain to get back together. Any other way should be ok.