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stev1955

Where should I look on our 30 Essex rear differential for the part #? I'm trying to determine in we have a 30 rear end or a 29 under there. I've had the axles out to grease the bearings and the axles have a square drive end. It appears in the parts list pictures that the 30 axles have splines and the 29 has the square drive. Thanks all.

Geoff C., N.Z.

If you have square ends it is definitely a '29 or earlier rear end. These are bit more robust than the '30 assemblies, which were renowned for snapping axle shafts. I have never known an earlier one to do this. The downside may be that you have a lower gearing, as the standard ratio of these was 5.6:1. However, coupes and roadsters did have a 5.1:1 which was the same as '30. there are no interchangeable parts between a '30 rear end and earlier apart from the brake shoes, so it appears that someone has done a complete transplant at some stage. What size are your wheels? I don't think you will find a part number anywhere. To hel0p you identify, look at the front of the pinion. The '30 has the flange retaining nut holding the flange which disappears into the housing. Earlier models have the flange, then two large nuts on the shaft, and you can see the pinion shaft going into the housing. Good luck,
Geoff

stev1955

Thanks Geoff as always. If there is anything I need to know about an Essex I know where to go.
I always wondered why these axles were different from the ones in the '30 parts list and those I've seen for sale for '30 cars. Whenever I have the differential cover off I'll check into determining exactly what year rear end I have. Thanks again.

Geoff C., N.Z.

Like I said, you can tell without removing the diff cover, by looking to see if there are adjusting nuts visible behind the pinion flange.
Geoff

stev1955

Sorry misread your post.

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