gouged drive shafts

I just got a aluminim drive shaft and it has a got a gouge about 1/64" deep and about 3/4' long and about a 1/4" from the weld on the pinion end of the shaft .Is this drive shaft safe to use on a basicly stock 1995 Z28 ?

Maybe.

It's small (3/4 inch long?), and near the end. I'd be concerned about the sharpness of the gouge: sharp marks are stress risers and can become cracks after many, many revolutions. This is especially so for aluminum.

You might try smoothing out the gouge with a Dremel tool or file and sandpaper. Try for a smooth radius at the bottom, top and ends of the gouge so it looks more like a dent.

As you work it, look carefully to see if there is a crack at the bottom of it. You need to get to the bottom of the crack and file it out.

If you know of a certified aircraft welder in your area, he/she could repair the gouge. Your filing would probably be good preparation.

My $.02

On a stock Z you will be fine. If it is a 6 speed car and you are on a slick or somesort of tire i might be concerned.