Great Post Larry, I was going through the same procedure so many times that right now I can do the driveshaft with my eyes closed. I also started greasing the u-joint, even through everything flies preatty much right off it, some will always seek into cracks and help the shaft live longer.
I also did not hae any problems when bending the shaft further then it does while installed, if that creates a problem, I would say the bearings are worn out and should be replaced.
That driveshaft is one delicate piece of heavy duty metal
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