are rocker shafts hollow for a reason?

[haywire4130]

kind of a stupid question, i was just wondering. i didn't see any lube holes etc. when i quickly looked at it, and it isn't reciprocating so weight shouldn't be a factor... seems like if you have problems breaking them a solid shaft would solve it...

 

[pacecarta]

they could be solid but for what the 3.8 was built for the stocks have done quite well
there are solid shafts out there , i run a set in my 87 , t+d rockers have solid shafts and full throttle used to sell solid shafts for stock rockers
sometimes the stockers break from age or overtorque that cracks them but they can also break due to detonation when the valve is supposed to be opened but the detonation from over reving forces it closed and something has to give and then if the shaft doesnt give something has to like the rocker arm , ive seen stock rockers torn off the solid shafts

 

[haywire4130]

Well said, makes sense and answers my question, thanks!