need help centering my diff??

[lewismd71]

Originally Posted by wedged

based on the chance that you've got 2 different axle lengths, determine the center of the rear by measuring the OAL , flange to flange, then divide by 2. Measuring from the pinion out will be wrong if it is offset. Someone I know did that by mistake on a pro street car and now has a gap variance from the rear tire to the 1/4.

axle shaft length makes no difference when centering the PINION with the vehicle. the pinion needs to be directly behind the transmission output or you will experience vibrations. if you don't believe that it doesn't matter about axle shaft length from side to side take a look at a 14 bolt full float axle. axle shafts are significantly different lengths.

measureing from the frame rail to the pinion will net you the correct placement of the PINION in relation to the car. if you are running an offset housing (such as those found in a toyota landcruiser then you will have an offset output from the t-case. those aren't used in these types of cars. why o why would you ever have a different measurement from the frame to the pinion on either side of the vehicle unless the transmission is offset. you are asking for vibrations and damage.

plain and simple, the pinion goes in the middle of the car. if you put it there and have tire clearance differences then you have a different problem...like the axle was made properly or something to do with the fender. i'm not a body man though.