Hi,

So I'm looking to upgrade to an aluminum driveshaft. Car is a 1984 TA, L69, WS6 - stock.

I'm considering the GM 4th Gen 12564004, the Inland Empire CF8200 or the Summit 790305.

All three are 3" diameter, The IE and Summit are 0.125" wall thickness. I can't seem to find the wall thickness of the GM shaft. I see the posts saying it's thinner than aftermarket - but how much?

All three are around $400 - Summit is cheapest at $360.

I have read that the GM shaft has broken on folks - but I'm running a stock L69 with much less power than the engines in the cars this shaft came with, so I don't think that should be a problem.

The GM shaft has the additional vibration dampener on the yoke.

Part of me wants to go with the GM shaft to 'keep my GM car all GM' but if one of the aftermarket ones is significantly better I'd go with that.

What are people running and what do they recommend? Any feedback or suggestions from folks who made the swap would be appreciated!

Thanks,

John

 

I think you be happy with a GM, especially if you find one used. I bought 2 for $100 each. (no not looking to sell, lol. Both are being used)
Look on LS1 forum classifieds and such, probably see one for 100. Heck, give Hawks a call, I think he may sell used ones close to that.

 

Nothing wrong with a used GM one as long as its balanced and shows no signs of damage

 

the GM unit is ok. the the Inland Empire unit it stronger.. and a better finish/looking unit.
rated to 500hp.. its a lot more then the GM unit..

the Gm unit even looks smaller in rear life when set side by side with the GM unit..
they say 3" in diameter..but I think it's closer to 2.80".the Inland Empire is a full 3"

I also have a nice used..clean inland empire unit for a fantastic price save $100 PM me

 

Here's what happens when your 4th gen shaft needs a yoke and you can't find the "unique" version: https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/tran...t-9-th350.html

And it's cardboard damped. And it's thinner-wall. One day, someone will measure.

At this point, all I would worry about is upgrading what you can in this one venture. 1350 u-joint up front, and a 1350 to whatever you have in back conversion joint in the back. If you change rears later, you can go with a 1350 pinion yoke.