66ImpalaLT1

To those who upgraded to the 01+ torque tube and propeller shaft. Why did you upgrade?

I might order one tomorrow.

Thanks,
Eric


[Modified by 66ImpalaLT1, 7:11 PM 12/3/2003]

69

The reason I’m upgrading is for planed HP increases in my engine (FYI picking up the tube tomorrow) to P/N 12564457 {Improved Torque Tube & Drive Shaft Assembly-Torque Tube Assembly }The driveshaft is upgraded from a metal matrix composite to aluminum alloy 6061, and it is increased in diameter from 55mm to 63mm. Driveshaft couplings have also been upgraded on manual-equipped models for additional strength and durability.

I will also change the clutch assembly. I’m considering doing a Tech Article on this topic but since my car is put up for the winter I’m in no rush.

Kevin

NEPTUNEBILL

What's the price on parts for the upgrade?

69

I your car was produced late in the 2000 model year you may have the upgraded TQ installed.....Check the data label for the part number. The data label will have the word UNIDRIVE and it is located on the TQ tube 6 O clock position forward (engin side) of the tunel cover. If you need a photo for locaton let me know and I will e-mail it to you.

Kevin

66ImpalaLT1

I have the old one "UNICAST UNIMATRIX" on the label. I'm probably going to upgrade because I took it apart and there's evidence of a lot of flexing, the snubber at the center of the prop shaft is worn.

Dope

I would like to hear too. I'm swapping out the clutch in the spring, might as well replace the torque tube and 'driveshaft' while I'm at it.

Dope

69

Hello 66....

was it this P/N 12561082 ? if so, you may be able to upgrade just the internals. I sent an e-mail http://www.unidrive.com.au today asking if it was possible.

The SAE Silver Award was presented to Unidrive for Manufacturing Excellence in the design and manufacture of the lightweight Driveline Support Assembly for the Chevrolet Corvette.


As for the cost for an internal upgrade, I beleiv it is about 600 bucks for the drive shaft assy and bearings. but don't quote me......


[Modified by 69, 8:41 PM 12/3/2003]


[Modified by 69, 9:17 PM 12/3/2003]

66ImpalaLT1

The housing in the rear is no longer two piece, so I'm not sure if the upgraded internals will just drop in.

I found a complete assembly for about the same price, but shipping is going to be expensive.

69

66....

If you have a line on a "used one" make sure the coupling are serviceble before you give up the cash!

69

99/00 MN6 Torque Tube is up gradable!

Hello all,

I found out some interesting information regarding Torque Tube & Drive Shaft Assembly for cars model year 1999/2000. I contacted Unidrive asking the below question;

Hello Unidrive,

I am the proud owner of a 1999 Chevrolet Corvette 6 speed. I have a brand new torque tube assembly GM part number 12561082. As I understand, in 2001 manual equipped cars were delivered with larger-diameter drive shaft in the Torque Tube GM part number 12564457. The drive shaft is upgraded from a metal matrix composite to aluminum alloy 6061, and it is increased in diameter from 55mm to 63mm. Drive shaft couplings have also been upgraded on manual-equipped models for additional strength and durability.
Can you please provide me some information as to how I can upgrade my torque tube assembly GM part number 12561082 to have the improved drive shaft and couplings installed?
Thanks for your time in advance,
Kevin Monticello

Unidrives Response;

-----Original Message-----
From: Damien_Busby
Sent: Wednesday, December 03, 2003 5:50 PM
To: Monticello Kevin (LSL)
Subject: C5 Corvette driveshaft


Kevin
The propshaft you have in your vehicle is perfectly adequate for your use of the vehicle. Even in modified vehicles and race cars this shaft has excellent performance.
The later propshaft is stronger due to a material change and if you
want to change to it you can purchase as a spare part the later level
propshaft and it will install into your existing Torque Tube.
Contact your GM service center if this is what you want to do.


Cheers!
Kevin

MattG

A few months back the rubber couplers in my old-style Torque Tube died and started causing a real bad vibration. I was going to try to upgrade my old tube but found that ValveGod had BRAND NEW New-Style tubes for $500, still in the box. How could I turn down that deal! So I picked one up from him and installed a complete new assembly, housing and all.




[Modified by MattG, 8:49 AM 12/4/2003]

69

I got Valvegod's last improved one! :thumbs:

66ImpalaLT1

I guess thats what I get for dragging my feet. I wonder when he'll get more.

Buckmaster

I bought one too from valvegod.....awesome price and awesome service. Stand up guy!!!