quick driveshaft question

[5.0 Kid]

Does anyone know how much stronger the stock aluminum driveshaft is vs. the steel ones?

Also what does the fx4 level 2 use for a drive shaft?

 

[srteach]

Aluminum stronger than steel? not true. The molecular makeup of aluminum precludes it, an a cubic inch scale.

If they use 2.75 times as much aluminum, then maybe equal strength. ford did this as a weight saving move.

 

[Mac]

I think the difference is more like a 2:1 ratio based on the tinsile/yield strength, too many grades of each material to judge by. What Ford also did is make the D.S. larger in diameter and thicker wall to make up some of the difference.
Dave

 

[5.0 Kid]

So there is no difference between what they can handle? They can take the same hp and torque, aluminum is just lighter (for stock driveshaft).

 

[Guilius]

Aluminum is lighter and usually thicker in diameter.
you can ask any driveshaft place and they will tell you aluminum can take as much...if not more torque than a solid steel shaft, but it's thicker in diameter and much lighter.
they are used in most race cars for this reason. for offroad, this isnt necessarily a good thing as the axle travels all over and can rub on things more if it is thicker. but if your not doing off road, you can go with either one.

 

[RangerSVT]

Aluminum is lighter and usually thicker in diameter.
you can ask any driveshaft place and they will tell you aluminum can take as much...if not more torque than a solid steel shaft, but it's thicker in diameter and much lighter.

I would not use an aluminum driveshaft on ANY of my vehicles due to this one on SVT failing, stock explorer motor, 456 gears turning 33's, went to take off and snap...
SVT