The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop pinion angle ?

what pinion angle should i use on my 1940 chevy truck? i am using stock rear leaf springs,with a 12 bolt rear,running 502 bbc.thanks

Under normal loaded conditions , the 'U' joint works best at minimum angle .
So set the pinion to be parrallel with the g/box output shaft , under load.
This may equate to 3 deg down from parallel to the g/box shaft under no load.
The 502 BB will generate plenty of torque to twist the springs up a little .

Tommy, the pinion shaft angle and the transmission shaft angle should be the same but, not on the same plane. The u-joints need a slight off set to work properly, 3 degrees I think. The key is the same angle on both ends.

Someone directed me to randysringgrearandpinion.com when I was debating ratios. Great site for you kind of questions. Mike

The angle between the trans output shaft and driveshaft should be the same as the angle between the pinion shaft and driveshaft. Max 3 degrees there for reliable vibration free operation. Should have a minimum of 1/2 degree which allows the needle bearings to rotate. Zero degrees, zero needle rotation.