Setting pinion angle

[Fluid Power]

How does one go about setting pinion angle? Should the car be sitting on the ground, everything bolted in place, etc? Or can it be mocked up on a bench if you know the correct angle? I have had both methods explained to me, is one better than the other? If any one can add some insight I would be greatly appreciated.

Darren

[philofab]

I usually set it up with the car resting on the suspension at ride height because thats where it will be going down the highway. Long smooth roads is also where your going to notice vibration from bad u joint angles. With most suspesions the axle will twist though it's travel so I don't really know how you would set it up on the bench. I've heard the magic number is 3-5 degrees but I just make it the same as the angle on the front u joint whatever that ends up being.

[sinned]

Everything needs to be as it is driving down the road, which means the axle supported by stands. Driveline working angles are by far the most important number you will be dealing with, it needs to be at least 1/2 degree but not more than 1 1/2 degrees. Try and keep the tailshaft angle to around 2* down or so and set pinion angle to 2* up with a driveshaft angle of 1* down you will be golden.

[philofab]

To sinned: Why not more than 1 1/2 degrees?

[Musclecar]

Mine is being set at 2 1/2 degrees negative...

[sinned]

Running U-joint working angles at more than 1 1/2* will set up vibration/oscillation problems at cruise speeds.

[Fluid Power]

Thanks guys. I will set the angle with the car on the ground at ride height. Just wanted I have looked at the set up and figured the angle would be about 2*. It looks like I am headed in the right direction.

Darren