My 1500 dolomite is fitted with a 1300 rear axle.

[Richard the old one]

I have owned my green w reg 1500hl since 2002 and have only recently discovered that it has a 1300 rear axle fitted, ratio 4.11:1 fitted instead of standard 3.63:1 for that period. It has standard Overdrive fitted for a 3.63:1. I have still to work out what changes were made to get the speedo to indicate the correct speed. Was the speedo recalibrated or could it be achieved by changing the speedo drive gear.

I am aware that at some point in time it did have a tow bar so I am assuming it must have been fitted with the 1300 axle to improve the towing capability.

Was this a common modification ?

[Carledo]

I've seen plenty with a taller axle employed, can't say i've ever seen anyone fit (or know anyone who'd want to) a shorter ratio to an already undergeared 1500.

I suppose it COULD have been done to improve towing ability (but why bother, a Dolomite is not exactly an ideal towcar anyway)

But my theory is, FWIW, that the 4.11 is what the local scrappy had in stock when someone needed one!

Steve