Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) New Billet Input shaft needed?

[dmcowboy]

Hello folks, my first post.



I have a 98, 12V, quadcab, 4x4, dually and I have blown up my 2nd torque converter, just by pulling a 3 horse horse trailer. I'm done with that, so I am putting in an ATS 5 star torque converter, new valve body and a deep pan from Mag Hytec. I want to juice up my engine to around 350 hp and 650 ft. lbs of torque and add an exhaust brake. I don't intend to use this truck for anything except pulling horse trailers, maybe 16,000 lbs max.



My question is, do I also need to replace the billet input shaft? I am getting about a 60 - 40 split on advice, with the 60 split saying I do not need one. Anyone out there have experience with this that may help me decide? I do not want to go half way on this, but I don't want to waste any cash either.

 

[bmoeller]

I don't think it would be absolutely neccessary, but wouldn't be a bad idea towing with that much power. Cheap insurance in the long run. Particularlly with livestock. Wouldn't want to be stranded down in TX during a very hot/humid day.

 

[rsaderlund]

Do It Once!

If I could have done it over again I would have bit the bullet and got billet to begin with. I tow my fifth wheel to the coast and I am just glad it broke when I was empty not on some whindy road in tow. See my sig. I didn't think I would need them now. See my other post.

 

[DBCooper]

Yes, yes, yes. I broke a stock one with WAY less power than that, no exhaust brake at the time and was pulling less weight. I know of one transmission company that recomends them with exhaust brakes. I now have one, but it had to be put in while we waited to go on vacation.

 

[AWray]

It will cost you less in the long run to install the billet input now. If you wait until you need one, you might find yourself buying a new transmission.

 

[dmcowboy]

Thanks guys, that pretty much makes up my mind.

 

[monkeyman]

My truck is in the shop now waiting for the drum/shaft combo from ATS. I was driving away from a stop light on Tuesday and Bang! That was it! Should have done it when I had trans rebuilt two years ago!
Rick

 

[rsaderlund]

Back on the road!

Oo. Just picked mine up from the shop today. Got billets from Suncoast and even did the flex plate. It's time for a trip up north to see Mr. Ponci and have him fine tune some!

 

[thekidfan]

Oo. Just picked mine up from the shop today. Got billets from Suncoast and even did the flex plate. It's time for a trip up north to see Mr. Ponci and have him fine tune some!

Good to hear your back after it Robert!!