Lifts vs Leveling Axles vs Front Driveshaft

[tactical328]

I've searched the forum a bit trying to figure out what's safer but I can't really get a definitive answer.

I'll pose my question in 2 options, which is safer for drags/pulls with some decent power 500+

Option1
Leveled Truck cranked keys etc. No lift to fit tires.
Axle CV joint angles are high, stock front driveshaft angle.

Option 2
4" lift to fit tires.
Axle CV joint angles leveled, stock front driveshaft or aftermarket double cardan driveshaft.


So basically which option is better for the truck? Having CVs at bad angles and a janky ride from reduced downtravel. Or improved ride/suspension geometry and driveshaft vibration (possible) or weaker aftermarket driveshaft?

 

[oscyjack]

The real answer is keep it stock. Of the two, option 2 is your only choice if wanting to keep ifs and get a decent launch without something getting fubar.

The issue is not limited to axles, but most of your front end. There is a lot of google-able information on this topic.

 

[DefiantArms]

6" lift lowered down will be a common suggestion.

i ran 37's with no lift and t bars cranked for years everything wore out yearly though..

 

[oscyjack]

^^^ I guess that's what I meant to say. I assume when these questions are asked it's due to a lack of specific knowledge and in regards to the most reliable options. You can crank your keys and launch all day, just expect to have your CC on file with your parts supplier cuz you'll be ordering frequently haha. Your tie rods will likely be hating you more than your cvs

 

[Awenta]

A 4" lift won't put the stock driveshaft that far off. I would not recommend the aftermarket driveshafts. They're simply not strong enough.

A cognito lift would be best but you also need to do some more front end work as well.


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[2004LB7]

I have a cognito 4-6" lift and I have it set at 4" and my cv axles are level.

I get some vibrations from the stock forward drive shaft at certain speeds. For sled pulling I would keep the stock drive shaft as you are not driving at night speeds for very long to worry about the vibrations

 

[Blackmax123]

If your planning on sled pulling you can not run leveling keys. Been there tried that.

Get a 4" lift or 6 and remove the torsion bars bolts while pulling. Have Greensburg machine build you a front and rear driveshaft.

 

[2004LB7]

Is this greensburg front driveshaft as strong or stronger then stock?

 

[ikeG]

The stock front driveshaft twists from sled pulling use. Tube is weak

 

[2004LB7]

The stock front driveshaft twists from sled pulling use. Tube is weak

At what HP/Tq is this expected to occur? It is my understanding that most if not all aftermarket higher angle capable front drive shafts are weaker then the stock shaft

So what are high HP sled pullers using if the stock shaft twists when sled pulling? I would certainly lime to get one

 

[ikeG]

At what HP/Tq is this expected to occur? It is my understanding that most if not all aftermarket higher angle capable front drive shafts are weaker then the stock shaft

So what are high HP sled pullers using if the stock shaft twists when sled pulling? I would certainly lime to get one

A shaft with a bigger dia and thicker wall tubing. We ran stock one for years, even though it was twisted.

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[tactical328]

I love you guys!

Thanks for all the good info, I know it's kinda a lame question...

Yes the front end steering components need to be upgraded.

I just was trying to figure if CVs are a bigger problem than the front driveshaft. Looks like I have the answer.

I think the benefit of proper geometry will also help a lot for the DD aspect.

 

[tactical328]

At what HP/Tq is this expected to occur? It is my understanding that most if not all aftermarket higher angle capable front drive shafts are weaker then the stock shaft

So what are high HP sled pullers using if the stock shaft twists when sled pulling? I would certainly lime to get one

Yes I would definitely like to get a line on a front driveshaft that's proven under high hp situations. Is Greensburg the ticket?

 

[torqued2dmax]

I just got home from my truck being worked on for 1 1/2 days at Greensburg machine and driveline,Mark put all new yokes, front and rear, 1480 joints, larger center spline, carrier bearing and made of tubing that is about twice as thick. He told me that once I get my traction bars on ,that the driveshaft will be the last thing I need to worry about .I dont know if thats good news or bad .LOL