The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Open driveline/torque tube

The torque tube driveline was completely closed from transmission to the rear end with the driveshaft running inside it. The torque tube itself was used to primarily position the differential and locate it securely. The rear springs did not locate the rear end as is the case on an open or Hotchkiss style differential. The U-joints are exposed on an open style and the driveshaft is very visable as opposed to being entirely unseen in the torque tube rears. All that is built now are the open style. This started on the trucks we concern ourselves with here on the 54 model year. Many of us are still of the opinion that a proper torque tube is still a decent idea albeit one that requires more time and trouble to repair. It pulls the rear end along and allows the springs to provide suspension action only while providing a solid base for the springs to rest on thus eliminating the up/down movement of the differential. It is very limited in the available gear ratios however, 4:10 being stock on the half tons with only a 3:55 as a replacement option. This and the popularity of 5 sp OD transmissions (and others) which require the open driveshaft are the reasons folks change them out. I'm sticking with the General's rear and have no real desire to drive 75 MPH in a 55' Y/O truck. Besides, at 55 my old inliner really sounds great!