ChatGPT solves pinion angle question?

[mladen]

So, as I mentioned in my build thread, I've read many threads on the pinion angle question, but most tend to explain the theory, and not on exactly how to measure it (at least for us newbies).

My question is the how, ie where do I place the angle finder, at least on the TKX, I kind of get it for the diff where the yoke attaches, there is that round surface, but I wasn't sure for the transmission. So, I asked ChatGPT, and I have to say, this sounds plausible

Screenshot 2023-02-06 at 19.10.53.png

Another thread mentioned that the suspension needs to be weighted. Where should I put the jack stands to do this? Also, do I need to simulate the full/final weight of the car (ie body, fuel, passengers)?

[Ducky2009]

If you have a solid axle, place the jack stands under the axle itself. If you have IRS, doesn't matter, the center section is stationary.

[mladen]

If you have a solid axle, place the jack stands under the axle itself. If you have IRS, doesn't matter, the center section is stationary.

I do have IRS. Does that mean I can just leave it with jack stands under the 4" round tubes?

[Jeff Kleiner]

IRS need not have the suspension loaded or ride height set. Forget about finding a suitable surface on the transmission; easy peasy method is to place the angle finder on the vertical surface of the pinion flange on the differential and on the vertical surface of engine’s crankshaft damper/pulley and compare the difference to determine your pinion angle.

Jeff

[MB750]

I'm just surprised you managed to get a spot in line to ask it a question.

[Mastertech5]

Tremec has a phone app that walks you through it using the angle feature of your phone. Like Jeff said straight edge on the crank pulley and pinion flange. In your case raise or lower trans to achieve your goal angle of not more than 3 degrees.

[rich grsc]

So you would believe something that ChatGPT gave an answer to? It's a computer generated text writer, that has no knowledge of what you are asking. Proof is in the fact that it said use a degree wheel and a dial indicator.

[mladen]

So you would believe something that ChatGPT gave an answer to? It's a computer generated text writer, that has no knowledge of what you are asking. Proof is in the fact that it said use a degree wheel and a dial indicator.

I trust everything I read on the internet.

[CaptB]

When you get your alignment done, have the tech double check whatever you come up with. Extra insurance with someone else looking at it.

[mladen]

Thanks CaptB, will definitely do this for the whole car alignment.

I did measure the pinion angle as Jeff suggested. The closest to 0 I can get is 1.3 degrees, and that's when I lift the rear end of the transmission until the forward shifter housing sits against the cross brace, which I assume I want to avoid, for vibration reasons. When I add 3/4" of Forte spacers, I get 1.7 degrees, which I'm going to call good enough for now

[rich grsc]

You don't want 0 degree. 1.7 degree is just fine