Where could I get a 1-piece aluminum DS without breaking the bank?
The dealership wanted over $450.00 for one.
Anywhere else?

Jim

 

I got an OEM driveshaft from the dealer for their cost, which is just about $300 if I remember correctly (for the 72" version).

All I had to do is get a printout from GMPartsDirect.com showing what I would pay if I bought through them and I took it to the dealer. They matched the price. You're not going to get one custom made for under $500-$700.

 

Unless I know the part #, gmpartsdirect did not come up with a driveshaft for any 2005 truck.
Anyone know the part# DS I need for a 143.5" wheelbase??

Jim

 

Yes, you need the part number. Maybe zippy can help you.

 

I really don't think factory driveshafts are worth buying, no matter what the cost. They are not balanced well and very thin-walled. Talk to your local shop about what you have in mind and just get a quote. I happen to be lucky enough to be very close to two of Inland Empire Driveline's (now selling through Summit Racing) shops and have had them build me aluminum and steel shafts. They're built better and better balanced than anything stock is. I run 4.56:1 gears with 29" tires and have hit 130MPH. That shaft sees sprints of nearly 6800 RPM and is smooth as could be. There's no way in hell I'd trust a stock propeller shaft to that much speed under this much load. If you've got a shop near you that can build something close to that capability, THAT's the ticket.
Custom costs more, but in my opinion, I'd wait until I could afford it rather than settle for an inferior stock part.

 

 

you could always call Denny's Driveshaft... I'll be going with them when I have mine built. like has been said, naybe not the most cost effective, but definietly a superior part as far as strength and balance and longevity goes.

 

Denny's wont touch making an aluminum DS of the length an extended cab truck needs. I already asked.
Someone else will have to be in order to make an aluminum one.

Jim

 

it may not be needed but what about one of their CF ones

 

Yeah, for what - $1000? $1200?