I would like to install a driveshaft safety loop on my 70 GS. Any recommendations? Which ones are easiest to install? I saw the one that simply bolts under the trans mount. Wouldn't that affect driveline angle leading to other problems? What is the proper positioning anyway? I know they need to be within a certain distance from the front u-joint.
I have the one that mounts up at the tranny mount. I like it. You may have to bend it a bit if running a larger than stock driveshaft. But it's the easiest way to go. And it's only $50 or so.
I will probably go with the Metco the next time. The universal loops tend to universally fit nothing. Price List for Metco: http://www.metco-inc.com/pdf/RetailPricing03-2003.pdf Info page: http://www.metco-inc.com/dsloops.shtml
Rich, They are in the Year One catalog. Part # AW 346 for the shortshaft 400 and 350 trans. Price is 49.95, and they mount between the transmission and trans mount. I think I like the Metco piece better. MDL-1100 for 63.95, much sturdier, fits 68-72 Chevelle, El Camino, Cutlass, Skylark, Tempest.
Thanks Larry, I don't doubt that the Metco piece is better one bit, however, since I have a X system that's 3 1/2 inches, my space is very limited around the U-Joint area. I guess I'll need to take a look at both and see which one looks like it will use less space. Thanks again....
The driveshaft loops have been discussed before. With a little searching, I think there are some people who can give info on the trans mount version. I think one thing you deal with is it positions the back of the transmission a little bit higher. Also, you may want to be sure your local track will allow it.
Just Ordered the Metco Loop. Catalog said 63.95. When I called, they said 54.95 + shipping. Good enough. Thanks for those links Steve. Anybody know exactly where they need to be mounted? Iknow they need to be within a certain distance from the front u-joint.
It's manditory on all cars running slicks, and I believe 12.99 or faster (not 100% on that tho). However, I've been to about 4 differant tracks and they have never tried to look for one on my car.
Adam, Might be required for 12.99 and faster, I'm not sure. But I'm stepping up to stickier tires, never hurts to be safe.
I have the driveshaft loop discussed here that mounts under the transmission. After careful inspection of my tranmission / driveshaft angle I decided not to use it. All my drivetrain angles were perfect for what I'm doing and I didn't want to change that. The fabricated piece I'm using now works just fine. I have no need for the other of which is still in the box. Sorry I know this belongs in the for sale section, but I will say if anyone wants it for a decent price send me a pm. Thanks John Biggs
John, you're back! I used the universal one, and I had to have a lot of it hacked off. There was one way you could mount it that it hang too low for my taste. I turned it the other way, and I had to have the L bars hacked down because they contacted the tunnel.
I fabricated my own trans-mount drive shaft loop patterned after the type you guys are talking about and mounted it under the cross member and then used some pipe spacers and longer bolts so as to keep the driveline angle the same.
The Metco loop fits only one way and will be flush with the floor pan. It butts up against the floor support beam and is within the 6" of the U-joint required by NHRA. It's really a no-brainer to install, no removal of console but the seats should come out to ease the installation.
The Metco is really the best piece out there. I've used (and touted - since retracted) the no-drillers that fit under the trans mount. They require bending, cutting, etc. to fit right and mine ended up rubbing the floor pan tunnel and would have rubbed a hole had I not caught it. Also drummed against the pan at WOT - pretty disconcerting lemme tell ya. Of course you'll have to pull the carpet up some for access to the pan and it might be a little awkward to get a drill bit in place depending on your exhaust, but with a pal to help it takes about an hour or so... and looks purdy too. Well worth the few xtra bucks. Gary
Got the Metco loop today. Wow,:eek2: This is one heavy duty piece. Weighs about 5 lbs. Should be an easy install once I remove the bucket seats. It was 54.95 +9.31 shipping. Well worth it for a product made to fit right.
Well, Put the loop in today. Easy job, just had to unbolt the seats and move them back. It fit like a glove, butted up against the floor brace. Here's the finished installation.
Looks great Larry! I definitely know what kind I'll be getting next. Is the parking brake cable rubbing against it, or is that just from the angle of the photo?
