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Engine offset - where is the original drivetrain centerline?

The SBC/SBF engine is angled that 5/8" to the right more to provide exhaust header clearance at the steering shaft than to correct the angle of the drive shaft. You will find that you do not have much/any room at the rear of the transmission to work on the drive shaft angle. Yes, drive line folks state that the total u-joint angle should not exceed 6-7 degrees for both horizontal and vertical combined. Because of the front offset and rear end offset the V8 result far exceed that figure and as many swappers have found out leads to drive line vibration.

The simplest solution is to use the Volvo drive shaft with its extra set of u-joints. Because of the center mounted bearing you know the rear section meets Volvo engineering spects and you only have to worry about the transmission to center bearing alignment. That works only if you are going in with a pretty stock engine. Put lots more horsepower/torque up front and you going to have to go to an one piece shaft. Then the solution is a Cardan u-joint. That is a sealed double u-joint much like the CV joint used on a front wheel drive but without the boot. That is only a $30 extra cost if you have it added to your initial shaft build but lots more if you add it later to fix the vibration. Google that for plenty of information on the subject.

I have further information and links if you would like to contact me off line.

tporteratellijaydotcom






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New Engine offset - where is the original drivetrain centerline?
posted by  Dragwagon  on Sat Jun 25 20:54 CST 2011 >


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