Always go for prop shafts made from high-quality materials such as forged, high-strength steel or aluminum. While the pricier chromoly offers good strength-to-weight ratings, the heavier steel shafts can handle high torques and are more durable.
Choosing prop shafts with the correct length/diameter, wall thickness, and fitment for your Polaris Xpedition model is very important. This is because proper fitment on your Polaris Xpedition ensures that your ride has optimal strength and performance on the trails. Prop shafts with larger diameters and thicker walls offer greater strength for tackling more challenging tasks and terrains. A rule of thumb is to ensure your prop shaft choices match your vehicle's drivetrain configuration and driving needs with the correct dimensions and design.
While some prop shafts are designed to be low maintenance, others may need more frequent lubrication. Always consider the serviceability of your prospective choice, from grease zerks that allow easier cleaning to configurations that will enable easier disassembly. When selecting a prop shaft, the trick is to consider ease of maintenance and your willingness and ability to perform these maintenance tasks.
As mentioned, you need prop shafts with high strength and durability to deal with all the rigors of off-road driving. This is especially true if you engage in serious, heavy-duty activities on the trails. From the manufacturer's guide, you can identify prop shafts that will offer the strength and durability you seek. You should look for shafts with heavy-duty u-joints, reinforced splines, and corrosion-resistant coatings.
Factor in the balance and vibration characteristics of the prop shafts on offer when shopping. This is key to minimizing drivetrain vibrations and ensuring smooth trail operation. For best results, look at shafts with precision-balanced components and vibration-damping features. These qualities help to reduce the risk of your vehicle's drivetrain components wearing away while boosting the quality of your overall ride experience.