I’m just finishing up a motor/trans swap (416 LS3 stroker/4L80E), and will need a bigger rear end to stand up to the power. I’m wondering if there is an easy swap that fits (similar width and bolt pattern). Maybe a 9†from a 70’s Mustang or a Dana 60? I’m not too worried about cutting off and welding on brackets, but I’d like to avoid narrowing or retubing. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Someone correct me if wrong but the 70 and up rears are stronger but they are longer in the snout by 1" and you have to shorten the driveshaft, I believe there is info here if you look up your year. The 10 bolt 8.2 is really only good for about 350hp depending on how hard you're going to dump the clutch, the latter 8.5 is better but if you're to beat the hell out of it Currie makes a bolt in 9"
1972-1979 V8 Novas and their GM cousins (Apollo, Omega, Ventura, Seville) came with an 8.5" that bolts in without moving the perches. With discs, it's the same width as the original with drums. All I changed was the u-joint and shortened the driveshaft. Held up fine behind the 455/400 (275s but not slicks). Many people run them as-is deep into the 11s on slicks even with a manual. If it dips into the 10s I'd recommend a girdle cover, and fully welding the axle tubes. Faster than 10s, you should probably switch to a 12 bolt or 9".