Duramax One Piece 5″ OD Aluminum Driveshaft – RCLB

A driveshaft failure on a 2001 - 2016 Chevy/GMC 2500/3500 4WD shouldn't sideline a project or a workhorse. The 5A1480-M-RCLB(01-16) aluminum driveshaft is pre-built, pre-balanced, and sized for a direct bolt-in installation. Series 1480 end connections match the factory yoke geometry, while the 5" OD tube handles the torque demands of the original powertrain -- and beyond.

Specifications -- 5A1480-M-RCLB(01-16)

Vehicle Fitment Details

The 5A1480-M-RCLB(01-16) is designed specifically for the 2001 - 2016 Chevy/GMC 2500/3500 4WD with 4WD drivetrain. Before ordering, confirm that your vehicle's transmission output yoke and rear axle pinion yoke both specify Series 1480 U-joint geometry. This application covers the Regular Cab & Long Bed body configuration.

• Confirm year, model, and cab/bed or wheelbase against the product listing
• Check both yoke series before ordering to avoid mismatch
• Inspect carrier bearing and crossmember condition if the vehicle had previous vibration issues

Engineering & Balance

Aluminum driveshafts like the 5A1480-M-RCLB(01-16) offer measurable benefits over steel replacements in street and light-performance applications. Reduced rotating weight decreases drivetrain inertia, improving acceleration response and reducing stress on transmission output and axle pinion bearings. The 5" OD OD provides ample torsional stiffness for the 1480 joint series torque rating, while maintaining the clearances required by the factory undercarriage.

• Lower unsprung rotational mass vs. steel OEM shaft
• Precision dynamic balance reduces NVH (noise, vibration, harshness)
• Corrosion-resistant surface -- no annual undercoating required
• Direct bolt-in: no transmission crossmember or tunnel modification

Installation Overview

Installing the 5A1480-M-RCLB(01-16) requires standard hand tools and a floor jack. Support the rear axle independently before removing the factory shaft. Match-mark the rear yoke before removal so the new shaft can be phased identically. Torque all flange bolts or U-bolt nuts to the vehicle manufacturer's specification and re-check after the first 50 miles.

Order with Confidence from Universal Driveshafts

Universal Driveshafts specializes in direct-fit replacement and performance driveshaft assemblies. The 5A1480-M-RCLB(01-16) is built to order and ships with a full dynamic balance certification. Contact our technical staff for wheelbase-specific length verification or to discuss an upgraded joint series if you are running a modified powertrain.