Cheeks:
I would think that the angle of the pinion relative to the angle of the drive train would be the issue. If the two are in parallel, then the universals (at least up to a point) would compensate for the offset.
It would be nice to see what the total rear suspension setup looks like.
Jim
PS: And just what else are you thinking about for "coonkiller" upgrades this winter? Isn't it about time that you repair the
oil scoop or do you want to keep it a duck tape tearaway option?