To race axel? or not to race axel?

[pamo]

Hey guys just wondering if I should run a set of billet race axels or just run the original 36hp ones?
It's a 63 beetle running a 2276 IDA engine, should be around 180 rear wheel hp. I am planning on running M+H racemasters, mainly steet driven. May see the strip once or twice just to see what it will run on the 1/4.

[leec]

Yep, do it before you put it all in the car. They will break

[MC Dyno Don]

Agree...   If you opt for not running slicks you may get some longevity from your axles if you polish the spades as well as the axle itself to help minimize stress fractures. Good Luck..!!

[pamo]

Thanks for your help guys. I was leaning that way anyway, but just wanted to confirm with someone who has done it before.

[hotrodsurplus]

Sometime in the 40-horse years Volkswagen increased the axle diameter. They're a lot stronger than the earlier axles and if you remove the stress risers by polishing the spade end as Don mentioned they're quite strong.

I do not know how they will stand up to slicks but someone who can drive a car out properly can make them last a long time.