Contemporary Jag Rear

Seaman · #1 (**permalink**) 04-28-2003, 09:23 AM

I tried to install the differential in the frame this weekend and ran into a little problem. My lower control arm brackets do not end up horizontal. After a little investigating, I obviously have zero degree brackets, this makes the control arms parallel to the pinnion. Can any owners tell me what the correct pinnion angle is, and then what angle the brackets need to be. I know there are zero, 3, and 6 degree brackets so I just need to pick up the correct set. I haven't used an inclinometer to check the angles, but I thought I would try here first. Thanks for the help

Dave

RallySnake · #2 (**permalink**) 04-28-2003, 11:37 AM

Dave,

I built my car without the knowledge that there were different brackets. It was a really strange handling car at first with (I believe) three degree brackets mounted on a horizontal diff. I replaced them with 0 degree brackets to correct this problem and have a few old brackets. I do not understand why you would point your pinion downwards, though?

If you really want angled brackets, let me know which ones you want and I'll see if I have the right ones.

Paul

Seaman · #3 (**permalink**) 04-28-2003, 02:17 PM

Thanks Paul,

I think we have two different beasts. When bolting up the top of the differential, my pinnion has a definite upward angle. It is not horizontal like I think you have said your car has. With this pinnion angle, I need the 3 or 6 degree brackets. This will make my control arms horizontal. Once I measure the angles I have, I will get back with you and get the 3 degree brackets. Thanks

Dave

Bob Putnam · #4 (**permalink**) 04-28-2003, 03:48 PM

Seaman,

We use XJ brackets which I think are close to zero degrees (actually maybe one degree, but certainly not three). The differential is installed so that the pinion angle is about 2 degrees and the lower arm is the same. It's not a design flaw - it gives a bit of anti-squat to the rear. I suspect the Contemporary does the same thing.

Seaman · #5 (**permalink**) 04-30-2003, 06:06 AM

Thanks for the replies guys.

The pinnion angle with the differential bolted up top is 5 degrees, frame is level.

My control arm shafts miss the mounting holes in the frame cross member by 5/8 inch. They are too high, and they are also at the 5 degree angle (zero degree brackets). I think I will get the 6 degree brackets to bring the control arm shafts down and see how they fit.

Dave

Bob Putnam · #6 (**permalink**) 04-30-2003, 08:20 AM

5 degree pinion angle? It should match the tilt of the engine/transmission! - Which I doubt is 5 degrees - probably more like 2. Could you shim your differential down (front holes only) enough to have the bracket line up? Just curious.

Seaman · #7 (**permalink**) 05-01-2003, 06:24 AM

Bob, Thanks again.

I installed an extra 391 block and tranny to get the engine angle. It is just under 1 degree. I cut out the weld on the upper mounting plate on three sides and was able to rotate the differential to more closely match the engine. I think I am in good shape now.

Dave