Driveshaft Balance Weights (early C3)

[Todd H 26112]

A recent post (see below) reminded me... The other day at the driveshaft shop I noticed all their projects had 'round' shaped weights tacked on (and as std practice they paint all shafts semi-gloss black). I asked if they had options for other shapes and they said they really didn't - this was what their supplier provided and what they used.

I'm thinking (at least early C3s) had rectangular weights installed originaly. True?

If one needed rectangular weights - can these be easily sourced these days?

thanks,

[Joe L.]

Re: Driveshaft Balance Weights (early C3)

Todd-----

The weights on C2 and C3 driveshafts were rectangular with "90 degree" corners. I don't know where one could purchase these sort of weights or, for that matter, even the type you described. These are not "retail" type items. They are sold in bulk quantities by suppliers to the only sort of folks that would usually buy them----driveline balance shops and driveline manufacturers.

If you could find a source for the rectangular balance weights and if they would sell them to you, there would, undoubtedly, be a minimum quantity that you could purchase for EACH SIZE. Likely, this would be in the several hundreds.

Unless the industry has gone to the rounded corner weights for some functional reason (e.g. that's what manufacturing tooling is now set up for), there probably is a manufacturer of these weights that makes them in rectangular form. But, finding them, buying from them, or "living" with their minimum order requirements will likley be difficult.

[Todd H 26112]

Re: Driveshaft Balance Weights (early C3)

Oh, I'm afraid you are right...

If I were to tell my shop I seriously wanted rectangular cornered weights - they might scrounge or call around to find a handfull - or not. It's not like I take driveshafts in all the time and am a regular - but then they are very accomodating folks too.

The round ones I was referring to are 'circles' - like say a quarter bent slightly in the middle to match the curve of the shaft more or less.

I have no idea what otehr drivehsaft shops in my area use - simply never bothered to ask or research - this shop has been around for 4 decades & boxed up maybe all of the business due to longevity and reputation among custom builders, kit car folks, restorers and most of the auto shops in town. THeir work is first rate and prices fair.

thanks,

[Craig S.]

Re: Driveshaft Balance Weights (early C3)

Todd - it would probably be easier to fabricate some from hand, and weigh them in OZ, then take to your driveshaft shop....Craig

[Harmon C.]

Re: Driveshaft Balance Weights (early C3)

Todd The driveshaft is hard to see and has few points so I would not worry about the shape of the weights as they have a 50% chance of being on the top on judging day and judges are looking for bigger fish than driveshaft weights. Lyle