Factory drive shaft loop?

[Dan Thompson]

I was under the car today replacing the cat and noticed a support below the drive shaft, but above the transmission support.

It looked like it would support the drive shaft if the front u-joint broke.

Any ideas was it is for?

I've owned the car since new and have not had any work done in that area.

 

[Black Box]

I noticed that under my car too. I'm not sure if it was intended for that purpose or as a structural enhancement to the chassis. Regardless, I don't think it will satisfy NHRA requirements because it doesn't fully encircle the driveshaft.

I bought the Metco D/S loop to replace it, it's a direct bolt in which uses the original bolt holes.

Steve

 

[Renthorin]

That is GM's attempt at keeping the DS from hitting the ground. It is much better than the braided steel line my 84 Cutlass had in that spot.

Dan is correct that it will not prevent the DS from moving up and beating the hell out of the bottom of the car. A replacement DS loop will keep the shaft in better control. I have heard that even with a real look you will still get a lot of damage. I hope I never have that happen.

I bought my loop from Postons for 25 bucks if memory serves. It bolted in just fine and fit perfectly. Was not circular...more square on one side round on the other.

I think it is cheap insurance.

 

[MAP]

Greetings,

The channel brace you're referring to has two purposes: 1.) to act as a brace against a DS front U-joint failure (as you said,) and 2.) to stiffen the floor against the weight of the front-seat passengers. The floor pan has a steel channel welded to the top side of the floor, immediately above the DS brace, and running from side to side of the cabin, directly underneath the seats. The combination of this top-side floor stiffener and the below-floor DS brace, is partially to create a ring of protection that completely encircles the DS.

Or at least that's the theory of it...

Best,
MAP