1938 Cadillac V16 - GM Heritage Center

Because' of longer wheelbases and greater weight the
larger Cadillac hypoids have certain differences in construction
from the rear axle used in LaSalle and Cadillac
Sixty.
Lower Pinion Mounting of Hypoid Design Permits Lower Floors
The differential bearings are adjusted by shims on
LaSalle and Sixty while on the V-8 and Fleetwood
the sleeves which position these bearings are threaded
so that adjustment is effected by rotating the sleeve.
Cadillac V-8 and Fleetwood ring gear diameter is
eleven inches; on LaSalle and Sixty it is inches.
The pinion shaft bearings on the new hypoids for both
the Cadillacs and LaSalle are of tapered roller design.
They are adjusted by shims and pre-loaded on assembly
to provide minimum pinion deflection under operating
conditions. Oil passages are provided in the carrier
casting to lubricate these bearings. This improved
construction increases axle durability and quietness.
Both hypoid axles conform to the same basic principles
of Cadillac design which provide long life in the
assembly.
Both ring gears and pinions are held to extreme precision
limits. The variation from true accuracy is less
than can be measured by ordinary methods. Each gear
set is carefully matched by hand in a sound proof room.
In addition, each gear case is specifically manufactured
for its own set of gears, a quality standard not adhered
to by any other manufacturer.
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