OK, here is the story. I need to offset the engine in my '28 Essex 1 inch to clear the Turbo cross-over. Will this cause a problem with the u-joints? dan [email protected]
As long as the crankshaft stays 90 degrees to teh rear axle, you are cool. You know we have to see pics.... -Abone.
There's no rule that says the driveshaft has to run parallel to the centerline of the car's chassis. Having the engine offset to one side is no issue, plenty of cars come that way from the factory. Some cars and trucks have the rear end pinion offset to one side too. This keeps the U-joints 'working' back and forth so they last longer. I had a '69 Firebird and the engine was offset to the passenger side by one inch, most likely to make room for the steering box.
Actually, the crankshaft centerline should be parallel to the car's centerline. It can be offset several inches, though. Lots of factory setups like that.
Many cars came from the factory with offset engines. I know many Mopars and Studebakers that came with a factory offset of a couple inches toward the passenger side. I am sure there had to be others. I see no problem with it unless you create crazy u-joint angles somehow.
I was recently asking this question and came across this thread. There is a lot of good technical info in it. Good luck! http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=210514&highlight=engine+offset
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