Engine off center

[PlayingWithTBI]

Wonder if the offset is to counterbalance the fuel tank?

That could be or ... maybe making room for the steering shaft and gear box? I seem to remember other manufacturers with offset drive lines.

 

[Scooterwrench]

All those old Econolines had a serious offset to allow for the engine box.

 

[revmatcher]

In 2-door Tahoe the fuel tank is centered at the rear, so I don't suppose it's for that. I think steering box and front differential are the reasons for the offset.

 

[revmatcher]

There is also the front driveshaft on 4WD needing space under the driver's feet, pushing the motor toward the passenger...

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[89RCLB]

This subject sparked my interest as I noticed the offset in my truck as well.
This gist: From a top view, the pinion is always perpendicular to the axles, so the engine and trans must also be perpendicular.
Additionally: As long as the working angles cancel each other on both ends, the driveshaft doesn't care if it's sideways or up and down.

Source: https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/left-to-right-driveline-alignment.1181222/

I would venture that GM chose to keep the driveline in a straight line to avoid compound u-joint angles.

 

[L31MaxExpress]

First noticed the offset in the old G20 vans.

 

[Caman96]

I noticed that my 2wd is offset too. The transmission tunnel is also, more foot rooms on the drivers side than passenger.

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Wow…a solid copper frame!

 

[Orpedcrow]

Wow…a solid copper frame!

Very rare option! RPO code is only 2 digits. “Cu” or the optional “29”

 

[Caman96]

Very rare option! RPO code is only 2 digits. “Cu” or the optional “29”

And it only cost pennies!

 

[Schurkey]

I'm confused. Does something in that photo seem to be copper?

Wow…a solid copper frame!