Joined: Sat Mar 29 2008, 03:36PM
Location: North eastern Wis.
Posts: 1638
'70's & '80's Dodge or Ford 3/4 ton pick-up would probably be the cheapest & easiest to find... I seem to recall, There might even be a truck that doesn't have the 8 lug full floating axles. Sure would make things easier.
The 8 1/4 most likely under your car now is probably more than tough enough though. They can easily be beefed up as well.
Joined: Sat Apr 04 2009, 10:33PM
Location: washington
Posts: 163
My car weighs 4767 race weight and i run sticky drag radials with a detroit locker. I run a 505/512 cu/in stroker. I may want to run slicks a few times and am worried about the 8 3/4
Joined: Sat Mar 04 2006, 08:01PM
Location: Tucson AZ
Posts: 171
For the cost of a used Dana 60, having it shortened and welding on the proper ends, getting new axles, all new bearings, and getting new gears, you can sure do a lot to an 8.75 to make is stronger. Don't get me wrong, I love the Danas. I even have one in my '68 Cuda. It's just do you really need it?
Stiff sidewall drag radials shock the drive train much harder (ie; destroy things) than any wrinkle wall tires of the same size. If your 8.75 is living behind your combo now then I wouldn't sweat it going to racing slicks. However, if your still building the car, it might be worth upgrading to a Dana or just strengthening your 8.75. Does your 8.75 have a housing brace? Pro gears? Upgraded axles and studs? You could also upgrade to a spool over the locker. The 8.75 is much tougher than given credit for when the appropriate upgrades have been done to it.
just 1/2 of 'new', but the only used part in the whole thing is the housing...