Spicer Driveline Installation Service Manual - Manual (Page 10)

7
Installation Techniques
Single Plane and Compound Universal Joint Operating Angles
There are two types of universal joint operating angles: Single Plane and Compound.
Single Plane
Single Plane angles occur when the transmission and axle components are in line when viewed from either the top or side, but
not both.
Determining the universal joint operating angle in an application where the components are in line when viewed from the top, but
not in line when viewed from the side, is as simple as measuring the slope of the components in the side view, and adding or
subtracting those slopes to determine the angle. (See Fig. 3)
These angles should be small and equal within 1 degree.
The most convenient way to determine universal joint angles in the side view is through the use of a Spicer Anglemaster™ or a
bubble type protractor.
Using an Anglemaster or a bubble protractor, record inclination angles of drivetrain components. Set Anglemaster or protractor
on machined surfaces of engine, transmission, axle, or on machined lugs of transmission and axle yoke(s).
Note: Universal joint angles can change significantly in a loaded situation. Therefore, check vehicle loaded and unloaded to achieve
the accepted angle cancellation.
Figure 3
Example:
Engine-Transmission Output 4°30’ Down (1)
Main Driveshaft 7°00’ Down (2)
Input 1st Rear Axle 4°00’ Up (Input Shaft Nose Up) (3)
Output 1st Rear Axle 4°00’ Down (4)
Inter-axle Shaft 7°00’ Down (5)
Input 2nd Rear Axle 4°15’ Up (Pinion Shaft Nose Up) (6)
Note: If inclination of driveshaft is opposite connecting component, add angles to obtain the universal joint operating angle.
Angle a = (2) - (1) = 7°00’ - 4°30’ = 2°30’ (2.50°)
Angle b = (2) - (3) = 7°00’ - 4°00’ = 3°00’ (3.00°)
Angle c = (5) - (4) = 7°00’ - 4°00’ = 3°00’ (3.00°)
Angle d = (5) - (6) = 7°00’ - 4°15’ = 2°45’ (2.75°)
1 2
3 4
5
6
a
b c
d
Engine
Trans.
Axle
Axle
Spicer
Anglemaster
Bubbletype
protractor
Spicer Anglemaster
Dana Dana
Legend
Spicer Anglemaster
Dana Dana
Spicer Anglemaster
Dana Dana
Spicer Anglemaster
Dana Dana
Spicer Anglemaster
Dana Dana
Spicer Anglemaster
Dana Dana