Is there a way to set the pinion angle without the Transmission and driveline not in the car? I am going to mount my narrowed 8 3/4 rear this weekend and would like to tack the spring perches in place, but the engine and transmission are not in the car and won't be for a while. Can I set the angle in relationship to the rocker panel or some other landmark? Or do I have to wait until everything else is in place. I see conflicting measurements on the correct angle and how to measure it. Any help would be appreciated.

This car is a 65 Valiant race car, with 4-speed transmission.


Rick

No. You have to wait til the engine, trans, and driveline are installed.
The FSM contains a good procedure.

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Too many people who were born on third base actually believe they've hit a triple.

Rick
I feel for you I once tried it with the engine and trans "just sitting in there" but not bolted tight. I was OFF by a mile.
Frank

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Scrapple: Because a mind is a terrible thing to waste.
73 Duster - Race Car
66 Dart Wagon - DD
178" FED
82 D150
All Slant powered

Not big deal. I'll bolt it in without welding the perches on (or maybe one small tack) and then I will be able to set it on the ground and move it around. I'm seeing pinion angles of between 4 & 8 or more. Is one end of the spectrum better fopr a race car setup than the other? Sorry Dan I don't have a FSM. That will be on my wish list for Christmas.

Thanks,
Rick

Rick
I just think that the angle needs to be correct for your setup more than what angle your running.
IMHO
Frank

_________________
Scrapple: Because a mind is a terrible thing to waste.
73 Duster - Race Car
66 Dart Wagon - DD
178" FED
82 D150
All Slant powered

8* down was usually reserved for a really fast leaf spring 4 speed car. Most milder setups will live long and happy with 2-3* down.

My Valiant was happy with 0*.

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Official Cookie and Mater Tormentor.

I agree with slantzilla,4-8 degrees is for full race cars,anything more than 2-3 degrees will cause the driveshaft to hum on the street.

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V8?? We don't need no stink'n V8!!

It looks like I'll shoot for 2-3 degrees down. I just didn't know if a 4-speed and slicks would change the angle needed.

Thanks for the info, Rick