A current and worrying trend in the automotive repair industry is the increased incidence of premature tailshaft failures in current model Holden Commodores and Ford Falcons. Such failures appear to be increasingly common, particularly in vehicles that have undergone engine, suspension or other modifications, as any changes to the original factory design are likely to place increased stress on the vehicle’s driveline components.
Particular problem areas that have been identified to date as the cause of tailshaft failures include the rubber couplings at either end of the shaft and the centre bearing. Inherent weaknesses in these components can be magnified when the vehicle is modified in any way, such as increased engine power or lowered suspension.
The dangers and potential damage resulting from a tailshaft failure, particularly at high speed, could potentially be catastrophic, not to mention costly. To solve this problem before it occurs, a solution is to replace the original tailshaft components with proven performance products such as those used in drag racing and V8 Supercars.
Although this level of performance product may seem unnecessary in standard or even modified vehicles intended for normal street driving, it should be noted that an “off the shelf” current model Falcon or Commodore is capable of producing in excess of 300kW.
One company offering a full range of these components is Driveline Services Australia, through its performance arm Ozdiff, a performance componentry brand recognised around the country for its cutting edge differential technology and a product range that spans everything from performance axles to yokes, tailshafts to gearsets and more.
Driveline Services have pioneered a range of high-performance universal joints, centre bearings and modified driveline components to produce a complete replacement tailshaft for current model Falcons and Commodores designed to withstand the unique stress of modified vehicles.
The photos show before and after shots of the gearbox output flange and the complete replacement tailshaft as recently fitted on a Commodore VE SS ute. For more information, contact Driveline Services on 1300 693 433.
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