quickchange question

[Jim in Upstate NY]

How hard is it to change out a stock 37 thru 40 rearend center section to v8 quickchange. Both are closed drive. Thanks, Jim

[thunderbirdesq]

The rear axle needs to be removed, disassembled, reassembled, and set up. Also I think the QC housing input shaft is a different depth than the stock pinion and the driveline needs to be shortened slighty? Not entirely sure about that, the only one I've done needed the whole shaft shortened a LOT to fit a '32 frame.

Also, much more trouble than the axle itself, you'll need to change your rear crossmember/spring to a Model A or T unit and possibly modify/notch your fuel tank to make room for the longer QC housing.

[Elmo Rodge]

I wouldn't think you would have to change the drive shaft length. What kind of quickiechange are you considering? Wayno

[thunderbirdesq]

Originally Posted by Elmo Rodge

I wouldn't think you would have to change the drive shaft length. What kind of quickiechange are you considering? Wayno

I know there's a slight length difference, just not sure if you have to bother changing the TT and shaft length. Might be enough to goof up the speedo assy. Regardless, it would be a PITA to install!

[rotorwrench]

The shaft and torque tube (if applicable) are relocated on the quick change housing so the short shaft can go under the ring. Sometimes even the spring hangers have to be addressed to get everything at the correct alignment. It's no small bolt in alteration for sure.

Kerby

[Human Fly]

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The spider carrier also needs to be machined to clear the lower shaft, the pinion gear needs to be machined to fit into the rear cover bearing.

[thunderbirdesq]

Originally Posted by Human Fly

The spider carrier also needs to be machined to clear the lower shaft, the pinion gear needs to be machined to fit into the rear cover bearing.

Good points if you're using an original old QC center. I think the new kits come "ready to install" with no machining required.

[JM 35 Sedan]

Originally Posted by Jim in Upstate NY

How hard is it to change out a stock 37 thru 40 rearend center section to v8 quickchange. Both are closed drive. Thanks, Jim

You mention '37 - '48 rear but what year/body style vehicle are you planning/thinking about putting a QC into? I'm putting a closed drive QC in a '35 tudor sedan. This is a Winters/Spadaro V8 unit. I did not have to cut or change the drive shaft or torque tube in any way. I did have to fabricate a new rear cross member by using the center section a Model A and both ends of a '35 cross member. Also, I had to use a Model A rear spring. While fabricating the rear cross member, I had to design in a slight angle change because the TT/drive shaft attaches to the banjo at a lower position and angle rather than in the center of the banjo as the stock rear did. I designed the new cross member such that it is not required to cut a rectangular hole in the rear floor pan and it does not interfere with a stock gas tank. This was a pretty easy installation because I am working with a bare frame that does not have the body in place yet, but as others have said this is not just a drop in and go project. You need to be determined that this is definitely what you want to do before starting but it is possible. There are three sources, that I am aware of, where you can purchase a new and complete closed drive QC center section. This is in addition to the possibility of finding an old original QC to use. I'll attach a couple pics of what I am building FYI. If you need any additional info on my project, let me know here or send me a PM. Good luck!

[Flathead]

You are doing a nice job. Very clean. Very traditional. Thanks for posting the pics!

[richard crow]

make sure you get a set of ear plugs.every one i ever rode in cryed like a spoiled brat in a toy store.may be the new ones are different i am sure the barn will chime in

[JM 35 Sedan]

Originally Posted by richard crow

make sure you get a set of ear plugs.every one i ever rode in cryed like a spoiled brat in a toy store.may be the new ones are different i am sure the barn will chime in

Crow, I'm not really concerned about how much those straight cut QC gears whine. As of 2-1/2 years ago, I lost most all of my hearing. I am now almost totally deaf. Even if I could hear well, the dual straight exhaust will make more noise than the QC gears. However, those who care to ride with me may need the ear plugs .

[jaysberman]

I like to think the QC in my roadster is singing to me.

[Flathead]

I've got stereo. An old Halibrand V8 QC in the back, and a GMC 671 up front on the Flathead. No ear plugs!

[uncle buck]

Originally Posted by Flathead

I've got stereo. An old Halibrand V8 QC in the back, and a GMC 671 up front on the Flathead. No ear plugs!

Now that is cool!

[Ol' Ron]

Coupla things: reverse the axel housings and put the spring in front of the axel. buy a quite gear set.

[patdoody]

Where are you guys finding these center sections at? I have a late 40's open drive rear, I would love to make into a QC. Nothing beats the look. Any websites with good info on putting one all together?

[rotorwrench]

patdoody

You might find some info on the HAMB. You can also check out Dick Spadaro's or Hot Rod Works' web-sites. They have both done a lot of work getting quick change parts available to rodders with just about any part a person might need to get their particular car set up. There are others out there too, but I'm just more familiar with the two mentioned.

Kerby

[BUBBAS IGNITION]

I have ran Dick Spadaros unit in my GMC powered Model A for the last five years. Love it with no problems!! I used the Wilson welding 41 Lincoln brakes and a 46 ford rear.
Set up is pretty straight forward as well.

[patdoody]

thanks for the info.

[JM 35 Sedan]

There is a complete '50's era Halibrand Culver City QC on epay for "ONLY'" $6,200.00 LOL