3SGTE engine swap GearBox question Options

[digs]

Hi guys. Lot more experience with 3sgte swaps over here I believe

Mine went in, and initially was using a s54 box with SSI drive shafts. These got destroyed, the drive shaft box end had massive movement after a couple of months of not super hard driving. Took out the s54 as well

I bought a e56 plus shafts, but unfortunately this was non-working (only 3rd gear!).

Another S54 went in, with more drive shafts, this time ones from a 3sge. One spirited hard drive and the drive shafts went again. More driveshafts going in so drivable, and no thrashing for a moment.

Now, looking for a e56 with stronger drive shafts, know that's needed (for the LSD as well).

HOWEVER....anyone been running the 3sgte with the normal s54 box and shafts, and has it been holding up any better ? Or are these just too weak. Sure I have read the standard box being used, including on 5sftes, and holding the power.

Be interested to hear your experiences.

This post has been edited by digs: Aug 28, 2014 - 3:38 PM

[lagos]

There is an aftermarket axle manufacture called Cardone that makes thicker axles. They make brand new axles (not rebuilds) and only cost about 100$ per axle. You can buy them in most car parts stores. I think Carquest, Nappa, etc... might carry them.

But In general, if you're breaking s54 stock axles or trans after a few drives, then you are doing something wrong. A lot of people on here have an s54 with a 3sgte, and my s54 lasted 10+ years before it had to be replaced.