triumphs
[Top] [All Lists]

Re: GT6/Spit differentials

To: Michael Nugent <nugentmd@gte.net>
Subject: Re: GT6/Spit differentials
From: Andrew Mace <amace@unix2.nysed.gov>
Date: Wed, 31 May 2000 15:31:19 -0400 ()
Cc: Triumph list <triumphs@autox.team.net>
On Wed, 31 May 2000, Michael Nugent wrote:

> Please check my "facts" (gleaned from emails):
> 1. A GT6 differential is no stronger than a Spitfire's.
> 2. A GT6 driveshaft will connect to a Spitfire differential without
> problems.

It's not quite that simple. Pre-1971 Spitfire differentials have smaller
flanges for driveshaft and axle shaft, so one needs to swap u-joint
flanges around. But later 1971-Spitfire differentials are very similar to
those of the GT6 in strength, etc., and compatibility, EXCEPT that only
the very last of the Mk.3 GT6 used the swing-spring of the 1971-
Spitfires. Therefore, the later Spitfires have only four studs holding the
leaf spring to the case, while most GT6s would have six studs to hold the
leaf spring. You would have to drill the Spitfire diff. case for the last
two studs.
 
> I recognize there is a difference in ratio (my GT6 has overdrive, so it's
> not as much difference as it would be with a non-OD GT6), but I don't expect
> to spend much time on freeways anyhow.

Depending on your particular GT6, it might already have the 3.89:1 ratio
found in all US-spec 1971-Spitfires (except the 1972 model year, which
reverted temporarily to the 4.11:1).

Not simple, but not all that complicated!

--Andy

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* Andrew Mace, President and                *
*   10/Herald/Vitesse (Sports 6) Consultant *
* Vintage Triumph Register <www.vtr.org>    *
* amace@unix2.nysed.gov                     *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *



<Prev in Thread] Current Thread [Next in Thread>