Opinions: Durablue or new Stock Axle

[250rAL]

I'm trying to decide whether to get a Durablue Eliminator axle or a new Honda stock axle. The main advantage to the DB is the chrome finish. But how long will it stay that way? It seems like today's chrome plating is just temporary compared to 30 years ago. And they have a "lifetime" guarantee but a lot of good that'll do if I'm a long way from home on a multi-day ride and the thing craps out on me. I've still got the original axle and it hasn't bent even after some very hard landings. The factory axle costs a little more but not enough to be a major issue. I'm not looking for any more track width so that isn't a factor either. I'm open to any opinions you might have...

[250sx]

Unless you're going big then I would just find a good used axle for around $100 and let it ride. You could even have it powdercoated & still come out ahead. :shrug:

[250rAL]

Na, the thing is, I want to start from new so I don't have to mess with it again for a long time. If I buy used, I might end up with the same thing I've got now. My current axle has grooves worn into it .0555" deep where the bearings ride. Also I've got a new brake rotor hub that I don't want to put on a worn axle.

[deathman53]

if you buy the axle from service honda, it will be cheaper than a durablue, but its discontinued. so you don't have too many chioces. this is why I changed my rear end to a 86

86 axle

42310-HA2-670 AXLE, RR. 001 $335.84 $221.69

85 axle

42310-HA2-020 AXLE, RR. 001 $555.02 yes(discontinued) $366.37

and also the wide availablitly of aftermarket, with the 85 you are stuck with durabreak

[deathman53]

I'm wrong, you can get a oem stock 85 axle from cal-atv for $393.75

[SpeedBump]

Originally posted by 250rAL
I'm trying to decide whether to get a Durablue Eliminator axle or a new Honda stock axle. And they have a "lifetime" guarantee but a lot of good that'll do if I'm a long way from home on a multi-day ride and the thing craps out on me. . I'm open to any opinions you might have...

Hey, give Durablue a call about their "LIFETIME" guarantee. They kinda suck to honest. I had a Durablue, it got bent and I switched out to a LoneStar. The problem with the DB warantee is...first time bending it, they will straighten it....YOU pay shipping to get it there AND to get it returned to you. Next time you bend it...you gotta pay for the shipping...both ways....AND they don't try to straighten it, they just replace it....costs ya over $100 for some weird service charge. The same thing goes for each consecutive claim. As far as Durability,,,,people didn't give it the Nickname...Dura-Bend for nothing. BTW I currently have one under my T4, but it was on it when I got the machine. If and when it gives me trouble...I will look for a different brand, but will end up having to go with the DB again, due to the lack of availability of parts for the Tecate4.

Good luck. :thumbsup:

[250rAL]

Yeah, I read their whole warranty on their site. That's why I'm thinking stay with what I know is good. I do some pretty good jumps and I doubt the Durablue will stand up to it. I'd hate to put out all that $ for a Durablue THEN have to do it again for a stock axle later.

[CeaserTheThird]

Old Thread - But what did you end up buying DuraBlue or LoneStar or OEM ? ? ?