oddball question
 

I wasnt sure which forum this would be best asked in, but here goes:
Is there a way to figure out the rear gearing on a car using the other available data? i.e. wheel size, gear your in,gear ratio, RPM etc? I know it can be figured out, but what is the easiest formula? Sorry, dumb question, but I dont know where to start really:rolleyes:

Thanks,
J

Can you be a bit clearer in your question? I think I have the answer you are looking for, I just want to make sure that you are asking the question I think you are. Man, that was one long sentence. Sorry.

Later.

See how many times the driveshaft rotates to 1 tire rotation. I.E. Driveshaft rotates 3.73 times when tire makes 1 rotation: 3.73:1 rear gear. ~Brian

Acxtually, It depoends on whether you have a limited slip differential or not. Raise up one side lifting one rear wheel off the ground. With the car in neutral, try to rotate that off the ground wheel. If it turns easilly, you have an open rear differential.

If it won't turn, then you have a limited slip differential. With the limited slip differential, you must raise both rear wheels off the ground. Then each rotation of the (both) rear wheels will turn the drive shaft a certain number of rotations. That number (eg. 3.25) is your rear axle ratio.

Now, if you have an open axle, put one side firmly on the ground with the other side off the ground. Turn the wheel exactly 2 turns and note the number of turns of the drive shaft. That will tell you more or less the rear end ratio.

Rev

Thanks everyone, I'll try those suggestions this weekend,

J