1974 Spider differential crush sleeve

[DMacrum]

I have a 1974 Spider 1800. The engine is from a similar year Lancia, but is effectively identical. I rebuilt the engine and balanced and blue-printed it with IAP 9:1 pistons, stiffer valve springs and larger valves and a tuned exhaust. Temporarily I have a 32;36 DVG Weber carb (was from a race engine and is stripped of choke and extra crap) with a stock intake manifold.I have replaced the suspension with IAP lowered springs and KYB shocks, replaced the entire steering linkage except the steering box. Also, I replaced all the calipers and brake hoses and blew the lines and installed drilled and slotted rotors front and rear. The body and paint work is on the schedule now and then the final detail and finishing work. The car runs well, though I have kept the RPM below 3500 (only about 150 miles on the engine so far). The engine really wants to rev and the torque curve is just starting at 3500. I can't wait to get it fully broken in.

I removed the differential to inspect and, understanding that I could change the rear ratio, removed the ring and pinion. Then I realized that I could not find a pinion crush sleeve after I disassembled it. I have a '78 Spider as a parts car, but the axle is different. From what I can tell, the ratio is the same, but I don't know if the diff. for that would match up and be able to replace the one in my '74. Any advice on this or does anyone know where I can get a new crush sleeve? Or, if not, where I can find a good stock diff.

Doug

[majicwrench]

I used to take a crush sleeve, measure it, put it over something round (like a socket) and smack it a few times with a hammer to lengthen it just a tad.

And, breaking-in..not to derail post, but driving it hard is essential to getting rings to seat. Go for it.
Keith

[narfire]

And, breaking-in..not to derail post, but driving it hard is essential to getting rings to seat.

I was told the same thing...after first rebuild and baby'd the engine..

[kmac33]

I sourced a new crush sleeve from one of the "usual" vendors when I did my resto a few years ago - can't remember which one unfortunately. Was most likely either Auto Ricambi, IAP or Vick's. Did you check with all of them?

[howard]

http://www.autoricambi.us/product/DR0-4 ... -ORIGINAL/