Diff Question???How can i tell what diff i have??????

[72mk1escort]

I have a very easy question on diffs which has been baffling me for a long time now

 

If a diff is for example 3.77 and another on is 4.1 which one would give you better acceleration and what one would give you better top end

 

Im probably showing my lack of knowledge around drive trains here

[mk1estate]

4.1 will give better acceleration mate. The higher the number, the lower the top speed.

[Anglia68]

What he said^^^ .

Also smaller engined cars,like yours,and vans and estates had the higher ratio diffs fitted so you might have a 4.1 in yours already.

Models like the RS2000,Mexico and Ghias had the 3.54.

[72mk1escort]

What he said^^^ .

Also smaller engined cars,like yours,and vans and estates had the higher ratio diffs fitted so you might have a 4.1 in yours already.

Models like the RS2000,Mexico and Ghias had the 3.54.

 

Ahhhh thats great thanks alot guys

[antz]

What he said^^^ .

Also smaller engined cars,like yours,and vans and estates had the higher ratio diffs fitted so you might have a 4.1 in yours already.

Models like the RS2000,Mexico and Ghias had the 3.54.

 

my ghia had a 3.89

[72mk1escort]

How can i find out what diff i have?

 

In the escort manual it says 4.1 but there was an optional 3.77 diff is there anyway of telling which one i have

[Anglia68]

Originally there would have been an alloy tag,with the ratio stamped on it,on one of the bolts holding the diff in the axle.

 

If the diff's still in the axle you can jack up the rear of the car,put it on axle stands,mark the diff flange with a spot of Tippex or white paint,turn one of the rear wheels one full rotation and count how many times the diff flange turns round.

 

If the diff's off the car you can count the teeth on the crownwheel and pinion and divide one by the other.