Gears are not forged, they are machined from bar stock.
Typically, the aftermarket mainshafts are stronger than the VW part they replace. They exist because of racing. Weaker wouldn't cut it.
The 3.78/2.25 mainshaft you have may be a genuine VW part.
Eric at ERCO once told me that the 2.25 second is weak. A stock 2.06 is stronger. And that is why the aftermarket mainshafts don't come in a 2.25 ratio. It is the tooth count that makes it weak.
Can you post a pic?
thanks!
no pic i am afraid, i haven't actually bought it yet, shop wanted quite a high price for it but i will try to take a pic when i go back to the shop.