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.

"With this book, Prof. Dr. Vantsevich brings a tremendous contribution to the field of Automotive Transmission and Driveline Engineering, including his innovative methods for optimum driveline synthesis, as well as his experience with the development of various hardware solutions, from the basic limited slip differentials to the most sophisticated mechatronic systems." —Dr.-Ing. Mircea Gradu Director, Transmission and Driveline Engineering Head, Virtual Analysis Tools Chrysler Group LLC ? Now that vehicles with four and more driving wheels are firmly ensconced in the consumer market, they must provide energy/fuel-saving benefits and improved operational quality including terrain mobility, traction and velocity properties, turnability, and stability of motion. A first-of-its-kind resource, Driveline Systems of Ground Vehicles: Theory and Design presents a comprehensive and analytical treatment of driveline research, design, and tests based on energy efficiency, vehicle dynamics, and operational properties requirements. This volume addresses fundamental engineering problems including how to investigate the effect of different driveline systems on the properties of vehicles and how to determined the optimal characteristics of the driveline system and its power-dividing units (PDUs) and design it for a specific vehicle to ensure high level of vehicle dynamics, energy efficiency, and performance. The authors develop an analytical apparatus for math modeling of driveline systems that can be compiled from different types of PDUs. They also introduce methodologies for the synthesis of optimal characteristics of PDUs for different types of vehicles. Structured to be useful to engineers of all levels of experience, university professors and graduate students, the book is based on the R&D projects conducted by the authors. It explores intriguing engineering dilemmas such as how to achieve higher energy and fuel efficiency by driving either all the wheels or not all the wheels, solve oversteering issues by managing wheel power distribution, and many other technical problems.

A driveline expert guides you through each step of the rebuild process for 8.8- and 9-inch axle assemblies, so you can confidently complete the work yourself. He explains in detail limited-slip and open differential disassembly, inspection, assembly, final calibration, and break-in. He also shows you how to identify worn ring-and-pinion gears, rebuild clutch packs, set the correct contact pattern for pinion and ring gears as well as the backlash, and much more.

The world of high-performance Jeeping can be a challenge. With the used Jeep market growing, new models appearing, and an aftermarket constantly offering new and better bolt-on parts and accessories, there have never been so many options for the off-road Jeep lover. Now in a new second edition, Jeep 4x4 Performance Handbook debunks the myths and eliminates the mystery of getting the most out of your Jeep through the thorough research and expertise of author and Jeep expert Jim Allen. He explains the bolt-on parts, swaps, and modifications that will give the most bang for the buck, whether you hit the trail in a CJ or a Wrangler (TJ and YJ), a Cherokee, or a Liberty, or one of the many classic and vintage Jeeps available. From bumper to bumper, this book covers it all, improving street performance and off-road toughness, towing ability and suspension, brakes and electrical systems, and the all-important safety equipment and modifications. Jeep 4x4 Performance Handbook will get you on the road and off without breaking the bank of wasting time in the garage.

The General Motors G-Body is one of the manufacturer's most popular chassis, and includes cars such as Chevrolet Malibu, Monte Carlo, and El Camino; the Buick Regal, Grand National, and GNX; the Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme; the Pontiac Grand Prix, and more. This traditional and affordable front engine/rear-wheel-drive design lends itself to common upgrades and modifications for a wide range of high-performance applications, from drag racing to road racing. Many of the vehicles GM produced using this chassis were powered by V-8 engines, and others had popular turbocharged V-6 configurations. Some of the special-edition vehicles were outfitted with exclusive performance upgrades, which can be easily adapted to other G-Body vehicles. Knowing which vehicles were equipped with which options, and how to best incorporate all the best-possible equipment is thoroughly covered in this book. A solid collection of upgrades including brakes, suspension, and the installation of GMs most popular modern engine-the LS-Series V-8-are all covered in great detail. The aftermarket support for this chassis is huge, and the interchangeability and affordability are a big reason for its popularity. It's the last mass-produced V-8/rear-drive chassis that enthusiasts can afford and readily modify. There is also great information for use when shopping for a G-Body, including what areas to be aware of or check for possible corrosion, what options to look for, and what should be avoided. No other book on the performance aspects of a GM G-Body has been published until now, and this book will serve as the bible to G-Body enthusiasts for years to come.

Millions of Chevrolet vehicles were built and sold in the 1960s and 1970s, and the great majority of those were rear-wheel-drive models with differentials known as 10-bolts or 12-bolts. High-performance limited-slip versions of these differentials also have been installed in Camaros, Chevelles, Corvettes, and many other GM muscle cars from 1964 through the 1970s, as well as Chevy and GMC trucks. If you have owned a GM performance car from the 1960s or 1970s, you have owned one of these sturdy, reliable, and versatile differentials. Many of these differentials are now more than 50 years old and are due for an overhaul. In Chevy Differentials: How to Rebuild the 10- and 12-Bolt, author Jefferson Bryant walks you through the entire process of procuring, evaluating, and rebuilding the perfect differential for your GM application. In this step-by-step guide, you learn how to completely disassemble the differential, evaluate components, and select replacement parts. You're also shown all of the up-to-date techniques for re-assembling the differential and axle. Informative sections on axle identification and replacement parts are also provided. Maybe you have found a salvage-yard unit and want to rebuild it to upgrade your existing vehicle. Maybe you would like to install an aftermarket 12-bolt assembly for extreme performance or racing. This is the only book dedicated solely to rebuilding, setting up, and modifying these axle assemblies for long service life and maximum performance. If you’re going to rebuild a Chevy 10- or 12-bolt axle, this book delivers the essential information to get the job done right.

Focuses on the disassembly, inspection and step-by-step rebuild of the most popular high-performance differentials. Axles and differentials are not incredibly complex components, but there are some specific steps to follow for rebuilding, upgrading, and setting them up properly, and this book demystifies the process and explains it in detail.

Since its release in 2007, the JK has become wildly popular and nearly 1 million units have been sold in North America. With a wider track and longer wheelbase, the Wrangler JK is roomier, more comfortable, and delivers better on-road performance than its predecessor. However, it needs serious chassis, suspension, and drivetrain upgrades to tackle demanding off-road terrain and rock crawling. A full complement of heavy-duty suspension, chassis, steering, drivetrain, and high-performance engine parts has been developed for this platform. Co-authors Don Alexander and Quinn Thomas offer comprehensive guidance for making key modifications and selecting the best parts to transform your JK into a superior off-road performer. Lift kits from 1.75 to 5 inches are available, so you can fit off-road wheels and tires for exceptional traction. Suspension springs, specially calibrated coil-over shocks, and sway bars must work in concert to provide the correct suspension articulation and ride quality to scale obstacles and negotiate terrain. To increase durability and essential reliability, pitman arms, drop links, driveline parts, steering boxes, and skid plates are examined. Because the drivetrain must be ready for off-road service, the authors cover the most rugged and reliable axle assemblies available. Exhaust, intake, and electronic engine mapping upgrades make the Jeep 3.6- and 3.8-liter V-6 engines much more potent. If you believe that paved roads are simply access-ways to the open range, you and your JK need this book. It contains the vital information to convert any mild-mannered street vehicle into an all-conquering off-road rig. Whether it’s lift kits, wheels, tires, drivetrain, or suspension and engine parts, this volume provides detailed information, insightful guidance, and installation instructions, so you build an off-road JK to handle the toughest terrain.

As cool as classic muscle cars might be, they're only as good as the automotive technology of their era. That's where this book comes in. With clear, easy-to-follow instructions, this guide shows how to give your car all the muscle of today while preserving the classic styling of your muscle car. In this updated and fully illustrated edition of his popular handbook, veteran overhauler and automotive writer Jason Scott takes readers through the step-by-step improvements that will add more power, style, and handling capability to any classic muscle car. Full-color photos accompany Scott's detailed instructions, covering bodywork and interior restoration, engine enhancements, transmission and axle swaps, suspension, steering, chassis and brake upgrades as well as many other changes that will restore-or maintain-a muscle cars identity while making it perform as if it were built only yesterday.