Repairing/replacing UN1 input shaft?

[Matt]

Hello,
I am a DeLorean owner, and as you may know, the D uses the UN-1 5-speed box.

I am rebuilding the UN-1 right now, and my input shaft is damaged (heavy scoring/chipping on the pilot bearing surface). I would like to replace it, but a new shaft will be at least $400 shipped to me. Is there any way to repair mine for less? Some have said that welding it will ruin the heat treatment.

If I could switch to a better input shaft (Ford?), and have it fit in the existing primary-shaft-coupler, I would. I don't mind changing the clutch to one with a different number of splines, if it means the shaft will be stronger in the end. What I do have a problem with is paying $400 for a weak Renault input shaft (I already have 2 damaged shafts).

Any help or insight is appreciated.

thanks,

Matt

[RichardH]

have you tried speaking to Chris Cole?

[Matt]

No, who is that?

[BruceLambo]

Matt, I sent you a private message, but it doesnt seem to have gone. Anyway, how about just having the pilot end re-sleeved? Have a competent machine shop skim down the scored end, and have a hardened sleeve slipped on. Thats one idea. I think you might have an alignment problem with the box/engine for you to be looking for your 3rd shaft. Making another one wont fix an alignment issue.
But if you do want to change to another clutch plate, then the idea of a new shaft is easy. You will need a competent machine shop to make it for you and to have the splines cut to suit a different plate. Make very sure though, they use the 'right' steel, and use the 'right' heat treatment. But if the bearing issue is fixed, then there is nothing really to be gained from having a new shaft done just for a different plate.

[Ian Anderson]

Originally Posted by SuperMatty

No, who is that?

Hi Matt

do a Search for Chris Cole on this forum and a few posts will come up with contact numbers and addresses

He is the UK's all singing and dancing UN1 specialist and can offer spares, rebuilds LSD conversions, ratio conversions etc. I have has a couple of dealings with him and both times things went smoothly.

Ian

[Andy Sheldon]

Matt

We have standard Renault and Renault to Ford small block shafts available.

Send me an email to info@tornadosportscars.com

Thanks

Andy

[Matt]

Cool man. I actually called your U.S. office this morning. He told me to get the length, diameter, and spline count of my shaft and he'd see what he could do for me.