how do I figure out whether or not to us a cv joint?
I understand that if I use a cv joint I should point the pinion towards the t-case output, and if not there should be equal angles at both end, but the question is why would I need a cv joint?
i'm building my own buggy with 1/4 eliptic rear suspension and plenty of length for the drive shaft. should I just go with a u-joint alone? <IMG SRC="smilies/confused.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/confused.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/confused.gif" border="0">

The engine has to be perpendicular to the axles, the alignment should be straight line yoke to yoke when looking up or down at the tarnsfer case yoke compared to rear differential yoke. The yokes must be within 3 degrees 0 being best of each other, the drive shaft angle from rear axle to transfer case yoke should not exceed 13 degrees, if either the 3 degrees or the 13 degrees are exceeded you need to use a CV style rear driveshaft with the differential yoke aimed 1 to 2 degrees below the transfer case yoke center to center.

Alot of times a c/v will flex further and run smoother in alot of applications- figure your angle static then let if drop and see where it is- Jess

If you have enough length to make it work with just 2 ujoints, then skip the CV it is one more thing to fail on a trail rig. Sometimes a CV is the best way to make it work but don't just use one because it is cool, use it if you need it.

thanks
I'm working on setting up my suspension, and was trying to figure out how I should angle the pinion.