As power numbers grow, the importance of quality drivetrain components grows right along with them. Enhanced horsepower and torque will always find the weakest powertrain link, requiring shops to outline the need for a holistic, systematic approach to chasing added performance.

From the trail to the track, drivetrain upgrades make a true difference in vehicle output and driver enjoyment. Strong, sturdy aftermarket offerings bring projects together, allowing shops to create customized combinations that transfer the power from front to back.

Market suppliers can make the process even smoother with observations on recent trends, sales strategies and hot new drivetrain products that make a real connection.

OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND

The performance drivetrain market is currently thriving, in part because of the longevity of today’s cars, trucks and SUVs.

“With vehicles staying on the road longer, aftermarket trends reveal a market deeply influenced by the aging vehicle fleet impact on repairs,” says Neal Hollingsworth, vice president of marketing for Yukon Gear & Axle. “Older axles and differentials mean more wear-related service and rebuild work, not just upgrades. This provides a solid foundation for drivetrain repair and replacement to be considered.”

The same goes for the Pro-Touring market, which swaps new technology into classic vehicles.

“We’re seeing many more restomods popping up. Swapping LS motors into older cars is extremely popular right now—you’re finding them in almost anything imaginable,” says Nelson Gill, president of Boss Hog Torque Converters. “We’ve designed and manufactured direct-fit torque converters with LS crankshaft pilots to help with these conversions. We’re also seeing swaps go the other way, with newer transmissions being paired with older engines.”

Meanwhile, while more than capable, most newer vehicles still leave room for aftermarket improvement as well.

“Every non-Rubicon Jeep Wrangler comes off the assembly line with two open differentials,” notes Steve Filipiak, director of marketing for PowerTrax. “That means, at best, in four-wheel drive, two wheels are driving the vehicle forward. Similarly, most two-wheel drive pickups are sold with open differentials. Every vehicle that comes into your shop could benefit from some level of traction control in at least their rear differentials.”

Such are the large number of opportunities to pursue.

“Shops need to continually stay on top of the latest levels of performance,” says Ken Kelly Jr., vice president of Independence Driveline. “As the aftermarket industry continues to evolve, so do the shops. Our powerhouse components in 2- and 3-speed racing are beginning to progress into overdrive 4-, 5-, 6-, 8- and even 10-speed applications, from straight performance units up to daily drivers.”

Today’s quality drivetrain components help builders overcome the unique challenges of adding modern performance upgrades to accommodate engine swaps into classic vehicles.

STEADY PROGRESS

As with most any vehicle build, an in-depth discussion about each project’s planned use provides a strong starting point for aftermarket enhancements.

“It is important for shops to have an open and honest dialog with their customers to understand the intent and potential of the project,” says Cascio. “If a rear-end assembly is spec’d out for the current combination without taking into consideration the power upgrades in the future, a potential driveline failure can occur, resulting in an unhappy customer who is spending money twice.”

As is often the case with aftermarket projects, the biggest solution isn’t always the best.

“Ask vehicle owners how they use their vehicles and what they intend to do with them,” advises Filipiak. “I’ve seen expensive air or electric locking systems added to pickup trucks that will only ever be challenged with some snow on the road. And that is only if the person who is driving remembers to hit the button on the dash, to engage the front or rear locker. A hands-free solution, like a limited-slip differential, is perfect for that situation and ours is tough enough for most off-road applications.”

Meanwhile, even on simple jobs or upgrades you’ve added many times before, it never hurts to double-check fit and predicted performance.

“Most shops know exactly what they’re doing, considering they’ve been doing it for a while,” says Hollingsworth. “But, considering the technical accuracy—most often in newer vehicles that are adding bigger tires—confirming with the manufacturer on correct specs is always a good thing to do.”

When problems arise, they can often be traced back to an incorrect recommendation or choice from the start.

“Most issues come when the customer receives the product and, unfortunately, it’s the wrong component for their specific application,” says Kelly. “Talking with the customer in-depth about what they need to get to their goals is imperative.”

Couture has also seen many cases of starting a project with incorrect components due to a lack of knowledge.

“Don’t assume and force an installation and make something work,” he says. “If someone informs us of what they are building, we can identify and have the correct parts to professionally install a modern-day 5- or 6-speed overdrive transmission with ease.”

Finally, not taking into account the higher temperatures that accompany performance upgrades can cause future issues, says Nelson.

“If you’ve made power modifications, say to the cam or intake, and are now producing more horsepower in the engine, it creates more heat in the transmission, because that’s where all the power goes through,” he explains. “At the very least you’re going to need to add a transmission cooler, even if you don’t change the torque converter.”