Drive shaft - Stl or Aluminum?

[65-408]

Aluminum seems to be about +$100? I realize it is only a slight weight savings, lower rotational inertia, blah, blah... probably insignificant... but AL is cool, anyone think it is worth it?

 

[Jonk67]

Following, I'm at this point now and need to have one made probably as I need 50.5" with my AOD.
Called a local driveshaft shop and owner advised he does not like to use alum. in cars that will be pushed any harder than street use, I told him I plan NMRA and Open Track events. He stated that he has issues with the ujoint retaining ring giving in to stress and cracking since the steel ujoint cap is harder. He said he has had more alum. truck driveshafts coming in for repair to this area. He quoted me $225 for a steel one with 1330 mounts. Now I'm debating if I should go alum.
Maybe Shawn at SorT will chime in as he makes them to size also and I'm considering just ordering from him but want to know if he's had any reports of breakage.
Jon

 

[Anonymous]

I have a steel D-S from Denny's Driveshafts. No problems in the 6 yrs on the road and track.

 

[LastDeadLast]

I bought a used aluminum driveshaft for a Crown Vic Police Interceptor. It's got a larger diameter than a stock Mustang unit and it's designed for severe duty. Plus is comes with the heavy duty 1330 u-joints on each end.

You can get them from eBay for a song.

-Shannon

 

[buckeyedemon]

I have a Mark Williams 3.5" aluminum. They told me it would easily handle twice the power output of my car (which is around 490/490).

i'm going to paint mine as i really don't like the look.

 

[apollard]

Called a local driveshaft shop and owner advised he does not like to use alum. in cars that will be pushed any harder than street use, I told him I plan NMRA and Open Track events. He stated that he has issues with the ujoint retaining ring giving in to stress and cracking since the steel ujoint cap is harder. He said he has had more alum. truck driveshafts coming in for repair to this area.

My truck has a factory 5.5" dirveshaft, and I agree with your guy. While it doesn't have huge HP, it does have big torque. I've had issues with the yoke loosening up due to torque while towing and retaining ring issues. Mind you, I'm not towing at all above ratings, but I've had to have repairs done. It's also VERY easy to damage them when changing u joints (ask me how I know). I should have had a new shaft made, but was told the repairs would fix the issue - except it's back :rant, and the truck towing forums suggest the only cure is a steel shaft.

I'll put steel in my stang when I do the trans swap.