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I have a C4 rear suspension and front clip that I will be having fabricated into my hotrod build. I have been trying to verify the production year of my parts. I did find a part number on the front steering knuckle14093184. Research says, it from an 86/87 Corvette. Now from what I have read I should find manufacture date and gear info on the bottom of the differential. I also read that sometimes that information is not stamped there. Well, that info is not there and that I should look at where my e-brake cable is attached. I also know it is a Dana 36 because of the bolt pattern. I am seeking information on what gear I have. The engine is a Gen III LQ4, a T56 6 speed manual transmission with about 600 HP. I am not building a track car, more of a street car. Would the stock gear ratio be good or should I upgrade to a different gear ratio and what would you recommend?? The car will not be doing any long road trips, just local car shows probably within a 50 mile range.
Thanks so much!!
ELEE E brake connection E brake connection
Well it's certainly early and ABS so '86 or '87. Easiest way to determine ratio would be remove cover and get gear information off of the ring gear OR maybe just do a ratio check turning axle one rotation and check pinion rotation. Should be easy on the ground. Axle ratios that you might find are limited 3.07 would be 'numerical highest', 2.73, 2.59 the other possibilities.
Most might recommend you get the ratio of the D36 you have and sell it as it sits. A 3.07 would sell easily I'd think and then just do a D44 build. Is the early suspension desirable? These days maybe not. If the build hasn't started maybe rethink it in it's entirety if the engine/trans and horsepower are the choice.
If this is a cruser/show car with a big motor then the Dana 36 would be a great budget option. But if you plan on using that 600 hp you might want to consider selling it and using the money to buy or build a Dana 44 from a manual 85-96 Vette. Most of the guys here that LS swap automatic cars also swap in a Dana 44. They are expensive, but in a total build project like a hot rod it might be worth the piece of mind.
If this is a cruser/show car with a big motor then the Dana 36 would be a great budget option. But if you plan on using that 600 hp you might want to consider selling it and using the money to buy or build a Dana 44 from a manual 85-96 Vette. Most of the guys here that LS swap automatic cars also swap in a Dana 44. They are expensive, but in a total build project like a hot rod it might be worth the piece of mind.
Thank you for your advice. When I was talking to the fabricator he mentioned that a C5 suspension would be a better option and I have started to look into that option. I will also check out a D44 as well.
Well it's certainly early and ABS so '86 or '87. Easiest way to determine ratio would be remove cover and get gear information off of the ring gear OR maybe just do a ratio check turning axle one rotation and check pinion rotation. Should be easy on the ground. Axle ratios that you might find are limited 3.07 would be 'numerical highest', 2.73, 2.59 the other possibilities.
Most might recommend you get the ratio of the D36 you have and sell it as it sits. A 3.07 would sell easily I'd think and then just do a D44 build. Is the early suspension desirable? These days maybe not. If the build hasn't started maybe rethink it in it's entirety if the engine/trans and horsepower are the choice.
Thank you for your reply! I had read about or watched a YouTube video about this (ratio check). After realizing what I have and where I need to be I think it best I just find a C5 or D44 for my needs.
Thank you for your reply! I had read about or watched a YouTube video about this (ratio check). After realizing what I have and where I need to be I think it best I just find a C5 or D44 for my needs.
I'd seriously rethink the entire project using later suspension and perhaps 'drive-train' there's way more desirable options today. A D44 only adds expense to using the C4 stuff. What is the 'project'?
I'd seriously rethink the entire project using later suspension and perhaps 'drive-train' there's way more desirable options today. A D44 only adds expense to using the C4 stuff. What is the 'project'?
I have a 1966 Mercedes 250s that will be my hotrod. I am very aware that my project is not the usual restomod. As mentioned I have a LQ4 that will be twin turbo ,T56 manual tans and it will be heading to the fabricator within the next couple of weeks for larger trans tunnel, larger wheel tubs, moving the firewall back, upgraded suspension and other add ons. I also want to make sure the car will handle all that horsepower. I bought the C4 suspension a few months ago but spending that last few days going through it I think it may not be the best option. Any suggestions??
C4 gear question
