Transmission and Drivetrain: Description and Operation

The source of the drivetrain's power is generated by the engine and delivered to the transmission. The driveline transfers the engine torque through the driveshaft to the rear axle.
The driveshaft is connected to the output shaft of the transmission and to the rear axle. Universal joints are used at both ends of the driveshaft to allow for angular motions. Slip yokes are used to allow for any changes to the length of the driveshaft. The engine torque enters the axle through the drive pinion, which rotates the ring gear. The ring gear is mounted to the differential case, which contains the gears that transmit power to the rear axle shafts or halfshafts. These shafts rotate the drive wheels. Available axles are as follows:
^ Conventional rear axle-Ford 7.5 inch ring gear
^ Conventional rear axle-Ford 8.8 inch rear axle
^ Limited slip rear axle-Ford 8.8 inch rear axle
^ Independent rear axle (IRS)-Ford 8.8 inch rear axle with limited slip.
The engine angle is built into the engine mounts. If the engine angle is out of specification, the engine mounts must be inspected for damage.