http://reality.sgi.com/autocad/4x4/CheapTricks/Driveline-101.html
http://www.classictruckshop.com/+4.html
http://www.4xshaft.com/driveline101.html

Thay all basically say that you want the centerline of the tranny output and the pinion to be parallel. This means that since the tranny is angled down about 3 degrees, the pinion should be angled up about 3 degrees. The two andlges would in theory cancel each other out and create a good setup.

However, my understanding is that you want 3 degrees DOWN angle (not UP as described) on the pinion so that when you get on it and the leaf springs wrap up, the pinion becomes closer to 0 degrees to the driveshaft.

Anyone have experience in this area?

Confused (again!)
Brian

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'67 Mustang coupe in "restomodification", 472 Motor at about 500 hp, C-6 Tranny w/high stall convertor, 9" rear w/3:50 gears and Detroit Locker, Power Disc brakes all around. ETA = Spring '01.

I have done a few of the big 4x4 suspensions and the extreme angles that they require are not relevant with a Mustang. The basics apply, but in a car you should be able to point the tranny's output shaft at the rear's pinion shaft. If not, then the difference should be split between the two u-joints. As far as the pinion angle it should be set when loaded against the traction bars, pinion stop, ladder bars, or whatever device you are using to prevent spring wrap-up. I don't think it is an issue unless you don't use a traction device to prevent spring wrap-up. In which case you'll blow u-joints and driveshafts daily!

Leaf springs: 5-7 degrees.
Ladder bars 2-3 degrees.
4 link 1-2 degrees.

With the pinion angle being the difference between actual pinion center line and the driveshaft center line.

BTW, that book that I referenced is *excellent*. Just got it last week. Goes through everything about setting up a chassis.

Later,

The whole deal is so that when the springs bend under max accelleration that everything will line up and be close to 0 degrees. Less pressure and wear on the u-joints and max power to the rear end.

Later,