S-A Design® - High-Performance Differentials, Axles, and Drivelines

All too often, when an enthusiast builds a high-performance engine, swaps a more powerful engine into a car, or mounts sticky tires, the driveline components simply can't handle the added torque and fail. In addition, differential, axles, and driveline parts have a limited life span under the power of a high-performance engine. Also, the proper gear ratios need to be selected and installed for maximum performance on the street, strip, or track. The performance of the driveshaft, differential, axle, and other driveline components needs to match the performance level of a particular engine, so maximum efficiency, longevity, and reliability can be realized.

This book covers everything you need to know about selecting the most desirable gear ratio, rebuilding differentials and other driveline components, and most importantly, matching the correct driveline components to engine power output. Learn how to set up a limited-slip differential, install high-performance axle shafts, swap out differential gears, and select the best available products for the driveline. This book covers the Chevy 12-bolt, Ford 8.8-inch, Dana units, and many other popular high-performance axles and rear ends. In addition, it explains rear differential basics, rear differential housings, rebuilding open rear differentials, limited-slip differentials, and factory differentials. Ring and pinion gears, axle housings, axle shafts, driveshafts, and U-joints are also covered.

Joe Palazzolo
Joe Palazzolo is currently a Chief Engineer - Geared Products at GKN Driveline Torque Technology Group where he manages the mechanical design and development of new automotive torque transfer devices, concepts, and integration into production applications. His resume includes employment at Ford, Magna Powertrain (formerly New Venture Gear), Warn Industries, and GETRAG Corporation. His has also supported numerous race teams as well as building and maintaining his own motorsports and powersports vehicles. Joe is an ASE Certified Master Technician, holds a Bachelors Degree in Mechanical Engineering, and a Masters Degree specializing in Automotive Engineering. He has been a member of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) for more than 18 years and is active in developing SAE standards. He has been teaching Drivetrain seminars for more than 10 years and a recipient of the Forest R. McFarland Award for distinction in professional development and education. He has received numerous patents for his innovative work and creativity in advancing vehicle mobility systems.