rear axle

Post by **ozzies** » Thu Jul 24, 2008 11:37 am

I have a pre-april '61 convertible that at a later date had a 1098 engine fitted and bigger drum brakes.
last year I fitted a midget gearbox and now I have ital 1275 engine with MG 1300 big valve head to fit.
Also I have obtained a 3.9 rear axle from a 73 midget. Will it be easier to fit the whole axle complete with drums or should I just put the diff itself into the existing 948 axle?
For instance are the half shafts stronger in the midget?What would be the best result. Many thanks . Ian

Post by **RobThomas** » Thu Jul 24, 2008 12:36 pm

You'd have a bit of trouble putting the Midget axle in. About 5 inches narrower, IIRC! Midget shafts, however are stronger material if the serial number starts with BTA (BTA806, IIRC) and are worth a little cash. No good for a minor, though. 948 shafts MAAAAAAAAY be a lower grade material than 1098 Moggy shafts but I may be wrong. When the first shaft breaks, you'll know!

Post by **bmcecosse** » Thu Jul 24, 2008 11:02 pm

Yes - just change the diff - the axle can probably be sold on. As RT says - it's narrower! In fact since you have both - could you put a tape on them and report back the two widths ? I thought it was only 3" less.