So 2010's modding is complete, so future modding is on hold until next year.

My question is, given my performance quest to lighten the car, which would you go with, the BMR K-Member (20lbs lighter than stock off the front end) or Shaftmasters 4" Al Driveshaft (12lbs lighter than stock V6 shaft)?

Each has their benefits over the other. The k-member is almost 2X the weight savings, but the DS is 12lbs of rotational mass removed. Both are around the same $$$$.

Which would you do if you chose only 1? Hopefully those with either/both mod can chime in and help me make my decision.
Thanks!

 

Hmm. I would probably go for the drive shaft mainly cause it will get rid of some of the vibration and the clunkiness will be gone, it will be easier for your motor/tranny to turn the wheels.

 

That's a good point Redfire. The DS is not only a direct-weight savings but also adds performance in other areas like you say.

Anyone else? First hand experience?
Thanks!

 

The drive shaft not only saves weight but will free up some horsepower to the wheels

 

I don't see how you can compare the two, to me they're two totally different mods. Not only will you save weight with the drive shaft but also transfer a bit more power to wheel being less reciprocating mass take less HP to turn. As for K-member brace, if it's anywhere near as good as the C.H.E. unit with torque limiters it's so worth it just to eliminate the slop in shifting and the looseness of the drivetrain over bumps and uneven road surfaces. I'd say do both!

 

Sparta, do you think the gain in freeing up hp/tq from the DS in addition to the 12 lbs lost is a more noticeable performance improvement over dropping 20lbs off the nose from the K-Member?

That's my main question. The comparison was only towards the fact that they both provide a weight reduction over the stock part and that they're coincidentally about the same price. I don't think I will be able to do both next year so I wanna do the mod that will make the most of my investment and do the other later in the year or the following year.

Thanks for all the advice and info!

 

Like I said the drive shaft will reduce weight and transfer more power to the rear due to less reciprocating mass, the K-member only reduces weight. If you're only going to do one then driveshaft would be the best choice.

 

I agree with Sparta, and would like to add something.

The lighter K member can also contribute to increased NVH due to the decreased mass. Less mass = less ability to absorb impact vibrations and noise.

buy the DS, and forget about the K member unless you are getting into serious weight reductions. IMO, I would never recommend a lighter K member for a daily driver due to increased NVH.

NVH = Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (Just in case you didn't know what it means)