A driveshaft is the unsung hero of automotive upgrades. Sure, an exhaust system gets heard and a suspension lift gets noticed, but none of that matters if the wheels don’t spin. Starting the driveshaft upgrade process begins with understanding your choices. Let’s look at the three materials available for modern driveshafts.
Steel Driveshafts
- Affordable
- Common OEM Component
- Heavier Than Other Choices,
For most automakers, the steel driveshaft is the component of choice. It’s no surprise, thanks to lower costs and minimal maintenance requirements. A steel driveshaft also does a decent job of keeping down vibrations and standing up to the rigors of roads and trails.
But there are reasons why steel may not be the best choice as a replacement. Steel rusts, plus its extra weight makes the engine work harder for every rotation. So, if you’re trying to maximize output and acceleration, then consider a different driveshaft option.
Aluminum Driveshafts
- Reasonable Cost
- Reduced Weight
- Prone To Breaking
An aluminum driveshaft typically weighs 10 to 20 pounds less than a comparable steel unit. This may not seem like a huge difference, but less weight means the engine doesn’t have to work so hard. Also, an aluminum driveshaft won’t rust (but should still be periodically inspected for corrosion), and you get better performance for not much more than steel.
Perhaps the biggest drawback again aluminum is its susceptibility to breakage. In these situations, not only will the driveshaft fail, but shrapnel-like pieces can damage adjacent systems and possibly injure vehicle occupants and those nearby. In addition, noise and vibration will be more noticeable with aluminum.
Carbon Fiber Driveshafts
- More Costly
- Lightweight
- Not Repairable
The adage “you get what you pay for” couldn’t be any truer than with a carbon fiber driveshaft. The extra cost translates into the lightest driveshaft you can buy. And remember, less weight makes for a better-operating powerplant. You can also take advantage of higher critical speeds compared to similar-sized driveshafts in steel or aluminum. In addition, carbon fiber won’t disintegrate into damaging metal pieces in the case of driveshaft failure. Instead, it will just separate into individual strands.
But no solution is perfect. When a carbon fiber driveshaft breaks, it breaks—there is no repair option.
Still Confused?
The experts at Precision Shaft Technologies can take the mystery out of choosing a driveshaft. We’ll help identify the best solution for the street or track. Just click or call (727-442-1711) and we’d love to talk about your build!.