C3: Frame centerline and offset drive train

[Steve L.]

I'm replacing my number 3 crossmember and trying to align the differential bracket which is part of the #3 xmember.

The engine is offset by 1 inch towards the right side. But the diff. bracket is only offset by 3/4inch on my original #3 xmember.

I've got my replacement #3 xmember (from Caledonia)with the diff. bracket already welded on. I've had to move the new xmember all the way to the right to achieve the 3/4 inch offset as per the orignal placement. So now I have no gap between the xmember and side rail on the right side and 1/4 gap between the xmember and the left side. There is no way of placing the xmember to match a 1 inch offset at the diff. bracket.

Anyone know what offset the diff. bracket is supposed to be? This info is missing on the frame drawings.

Also, what part gets the diff. back in line with the centerline - it must be the diff. to frame bracket?

Steve L
73 coupe since new

[John H.]

Re: C3: Frame centerline and offset drive train

Steve -

The diff's lateral position and plan view angular orientation is established by the bolt-in crossmember to which it attaches; the nose bracket and cushions just keep it isolated from the #3 frame crossmember.