Thread: Pinion Shaft/Transmission Output Shaft Alignment

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I'm building a '48 F1 pickup, using a 351W (stroked to 408), and a 9" rearend. I have installed a '68 rearend assembly, since it is pretty much a "bolt-in" swap, except I put in a 4-link suspension. My problem is..... the pinion/yoke is about 2-1/2 to 3 inches off center from the transmission output shaft. I understand the vertical angle issues, but is the horizontal offset a problem?
Thanks.

as long as the angle is less than 3 degrees no problem--lots of later model stuff offset engine and trans to right a bit---

That's the problem with using ford rears...When I narrow them I center the pinion.

they are offset (usually to the right) to keep the u-joint bearings turning in the cups. reduces wear and extends life.

As Jerry said, It will be fine, the offset keeps the grease flowing around the U joint extending its life like 34_40 said.


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Thanks to all you great car buffs, for your usual good and helpful advice. Where would us dummies be without you?Have a great weekend!!

I didn't know that offset thing either. You truly learn something new most every day.

Jack.

the offset angle in u-jointed shafts create a constant motion that makes the needles roll which will then last a long time--IF you set up a shaft with needle bearing u joints in a perfect straight line it will SOON WEAR into a piece of junk that looks like a splined drive cross--

Seems that what they developed for angled drivelines killed off option of going straight---

On my raqce builds I have a piece of 3/4 wall thickness tubing 2.750 od that fits BBC / cleveland ford main sizes and the other end with a pinion support housing for a ford 9 inch which allows to set up perfectly straight at the settings for the 1/4 mile--yes u joint life is only a few miles but so is the lifespan of the car when run 1/4 mile at a time--