Just after a bit of advice. Snapped a driveshaft the other day. I know it's best to keep easy to fix and cheaper things as the weakest link, but I think an upgraded driveshaft wouldn't go astray, especially once the car gets tracked more (drag and circuit). What options for an R53 manual do I have that won't cost a kidney? (I'm in Aus too) Many thanks!

 

From everything I've read over the years, it sounds like the OE and OEM drive shafts are the best.

 

That's what I'm seeing as well, but when you've snapped one (I don't have a big power increase, not lowered, but do have sticky tyres) you question that info. I'd ideally like stronger axles and standard CVs that can easily be rebuilt

 

Here are 2 different options. I thought i might try one of these if i ever snapped an axle.

https://driveshaftshop.com/product/m...ot-for-racing/

https://www.ecstuning.com/b-sneed4sp...t/1028610~snd/
https://www.ecstuning.com/b-sneed4sp...t/1028611~snd/

 

I tried the SNEED4SPEED Race Axles - they didn't last as long as the OEM axles.

 

A one-off failure isn't necessarily an indication that OEM quality isn't good enough. Fatigue failure of metals is insanely difficult to predict - if you tested a million driveshafts you'd see results ranging from very early to never. I broke an aftermarket spring a few years back - it was from a very reputable manufacturer. It just happens sometimes.
Also, you won't find an axle assembly from one manufacturer that easier to rebuilt than another, they're all built the same.

MINI brand axles go for a premium, GKN is the OEM which you can find at a reasonable price.