Vintage Cars: Driveshaft, drive shaft, universal joints

Question
Hi Ron,
My previous question was badly put, sorry.
Does the drive shaft still turn when the vehicle is moving if the clutch is disengaged?

Should the shaft turn when the vehicle is stationary, that is, should it be able to twist half an inch - not move up and down or side to side, just rotate anti-clockwise, just under half an inch?

You're a great help, Ron, I really appreciate this!

Thanks in advance,

Paul  

Answer
OK  - moving  - if clutch is pressed in - it will turn , but eventually stop , this is coasting
The drive shaft turns when the clutch is disengaged, that is normal - sends power to rear differential.

The shaft should not move up and down or side to side with pressure.  If is does the flex plates are bad or the rubber mounts are bad.  I can move a bit  but if in gear not much.  I guess an nch or so is OK.  Check your flex discs - if they are cracked or worse - loose that is an issue that should be corrected promptly.  The discs are at the ends of the drive shaft and take the place of the universal joints found in most cars