Axle strength question

IS an aftermarket 31 spline axle that 16" long stronger than an axle the same type that is 26" long? I am concerned with twist?


Tore

if they are made of the same thing the shorter one will be stronger it is about the same as taking a 2 pieces of wire one long and one short piece and twisting them the longer one will be easier to twist and the shorter one will be harder

There are a lot of variables to consider in this equation imho.

While I agree that the longer axle will twist easier it will also handle the twist better. I believe the ultimate shear strength of the axle would be at it's weakest or smallest point which is likely right at the end of the spline.

Then again if the maching is not up to snuff and a stress riser allowed a crack to start then it could be anywhere.

My guess is that two equal axles of different lenghts would be nearly equal as far as ultimate strength goes. Resistance to twist is a toss up in my mind. The longer one will act like a spring or torsion bar and may actually last longer.

As far as I know the general criteria for shortening rearends is to have the rear as short as practical. Every inch you shorten the rearend is a bit more weight out of the car. The wheel is the same weight no matter what the offset.

dkp