Now that I'm going to run a small block ford in my Healey, I need to run a stronger rear end. I would like to know how heavy a factory rear axel weights so I can cut down on unsprung weight when I get a new one.
That's a pretty arcane bit of knowledge... I think you're going to have to blaze your own trail and weigh it... don't even need to take it right off the car... undo the suspension one side and loosen it the other side so one side of the axle can hang loose... now you can weigh the loose side with a plank over a fulcrum and a known weight such as a cement bag the other end.
If the axle is symmetrical - the pumpkin in the middle - your answer and double it.
Won't be exact as the drive shaft will add a few pounds, but near enough.
Ivor
I am not sure how relevant the weight of the stock rear end is when you are replacing the drivetrain. My BN1 is built to the hilt with a genuine 1965 289 Ford HiPo with four opposed Weber DCOE carbs, a 5 speed trans with .63 fifth gear and a 31 spline Ford 8" with 3.80 gears and a Trac Loc posi. This is more than strong enough for anything I can throw at it.
There was a useful thread on axle weights on this forum here:
http://forum.britishv8.org/read.php?6,50275
If it is coming out, seems it would be more important to know the weight of the replacement. ;)
I believe it is very close to an MGB Salisbury. So, the Ford 8 inch can save a bit of weight. On the other hand, a narrowed Ford 8.8 may be close to the MGB with possibly more options AND consume a few less HP.
I think "Currie" has alum. third member ? 31 spline axles are avail as also floating hubs. Speed cost $, how fa$t ?
Art.
QuoteI think "Currie" has alum. third member ? "
They no longer offer the aluminum third member for the 8 inch Ford. It is still available for the 9 inch in 31 & 35 spline.