Classic Mustangs List Archive

This read-only message was archived from a public mail list.
Mail From: d_harrelson (Dennis Harrelson)

Hi, folks
It's time to consider what I'm going to do with the
rear of my mustang. (65 fastback, 302, t-5, mild
chassis upgrades, Granada Front discs, eventually to
be powered by a 351 sefi from a 93 Lightning.) I want
the rear to be 3.50 +/- posi w/ discs, and I have 2
choices.
1) Rebuild the 8" that's in the car, using one of the
several disc conversions available, probably Crown Vic
or Explorer. The advantage here is that the rear is in
the car now, running and working. There would be no
fitment issues other than the discs.
2) I happen to have a complete 9" from a Versailles
laying under the bench. It is very rusty, so none of
the disc pieces are good for anything except cores.
The advantage here is that all of the disc bits are
there, down to the e-brake cables. Also it's 9", so
performance gear stuff is easier to come by. It will,
however, involve some fangling to mount to the small
bearing plates, etc.
So, any thoughts? Ideas?
Later,
Dennis

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This read-only message was archived from a public mail list.
Mail From: W427 (David)

Hi Dennis -

You're a bit stuck here, as the 8" is reliable but not with any power to
speak of. Although you could upgrade to an aftermarket (Strange) center
section to handle the 360hp of the Lightning engine with a new
limited-slip or locker, the cost would be quite high and you still have
28 spline axles that won't take fat or sticky tires and a 5-speed for
long at track time.

On the other hand, the 9" is strong and 31-spline 3.50 centers are
inexpensive when salvaged from pickups and vans, requiring only a
bearing kit and either clutches for the Trak-Loc or a No-Slip type
locking insert for an open diff. On the downside, the 9" housing will
require shortening and spring perches along with matching axles to fit
the cheap center. So, you'll end-up having a chunk of change in either
setup. Probably less cash in the stronger 9" but more work.

The last option is the 8.8" rear that has a following. I won't even get
into the IRS types. The 8.8 will take the 351 and can be found
relatively easily with 3.27 to 4.11 gears and limited-slip. Mods would
equate the 9" but it may have discs already. Not a big plus as the
Crown Vic conversions will also just need rebuilding.

My personal choice would be either the beefed 8" and figure you may need
to get a spare set of axles and no tweaking of the 351 nor slicks. Or a
9" using a Mustang/Cougar/Maverick housing with small ends so you don't
have to also redo other stuff for the big Versailles/Granola tube.
There seems to be a guy in every area that has a rearend jig for 9's and
will shorten and weld perches for a reasonable price. Check with the
local early (1930s thru '50s) hotrod clubs as they have more 'buddies'
willing to be heroes for a good cause. ;-)

David

Dennis Harrelson wrote:
> Hi, folks
> It's time to consider what I'm going to do with the
> rear of my mustang. (65 fastback, 302, t-5, mild
> chassis upgrades, Granada Front discs, eventually to
> be powered by a 351 sefi from a 93 Lightning.) I want
> the rear to be 3.50 +/- posi w/ discs, and I have 2
> choices.
> 1) Rebuild the 8" that's in the car, using one of the
> several disc conversions available, probably Crown Vic
> or Explorer. The advantage here is that the rear is in
> the car now, running and working. There would be no
> fitment issues other than the discs.
> 2) I happen to have a complete 9" from a Versailles
> laying under the bench. It is very rusty, so none of
> the disc pieces are good for anything except cores.
> The advantage here is that all of the disc bits are
> there, down to the e-brake cables. Also it's 9", so
> performance gear stuff is easier to come by. It will,
> however, involve some fangling to mount to the small
> bearing plates, etc.
> So, any thoughts? Ideas?
> Later,
> Dennis

This read-only message was archived from a public mail list.
Mail From: ckelly (Chris Kelly)

Leave the 8". As for it not handling power: I call BS. It's good for a lot
of power if built correctly. We run one in the Mustang and it's currently a
high 12 second car with 4.11's, slicks and a spool, 28 splines. I can
provide a nice picture of a friends Cougar, wheels in the air for another
mid 11 second ride - and it was running an 8". Did for years. He did
change to a 9" this year, when he went from a 302 to a 408. Car now runs
mid/low 10s, maybe 9s.

IMHO - Sell the Versailles to fund the disk conversion.

=====================================
Chris Kelly - ckelly at raceabilene.com
raceabilene.com/kelly/hotrod
Merkel, Texas
Member:
International Hot Rod Association
Abilene Performance Car Association
Falcon Club of America
=====================================


> -----Original Message-----
> From: classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca
> [mailto:classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca] On
> Behalf Of Dennis Harrelson
> Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2006 8:51 PM
> To: Chris Kelly
> Subject: [CM] rear end opinions sought
>
> Hi, folks
> It's time to consider what I'm going to do with the rear of
> my mustang. (65 fastback, 302, t-5, mild chassis upgrades,
> Granada Front discs, eventually to be powered by a 351 sefi
> from a 93 Lightning.) I want the rear to be 3.50 +/- posi w/
> discs, and I have 2 choices.
> 1) Rebuild the 8" that's in the car, using one of the several
> disc conversions available, probably Crown Vic or Explorer.
> The advantage here is that the rear is in the car now,
> running and working. There would be no fitment issues other
> than the discs.
> 2) I happen to have a complete 9" from a Versailles laying
> under the bench. It is very rusty, so none of the disc pieces
> are good for anything except cores.
> The advantage here is that all of the disc bits are there,
> down to the e-brake cables. Also it's 9", so performance gear
> stuff is easier to come by. It will, however, involve some
> fangling to mount to the small bearing plates, etc.
> So, any thoughts? Ideas?
> Later,
> Dennis
>
> __________________________________________________
> Do You Yahoo!?
> Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection
> around mail.yahoo.com
> _______________________________________________
> Classic-mustangs mailing list
> Classic-mustangs at lists.twistedpair.ca
> lists.twistedpair.ca/mailman/listinfo.cgi/classic-mustangs
>
> Visit the Classic Mustang Wiki! sauce.donair.org/~cm/
>

This read-only message was archived from a public mail list.
Mail From: keven (Coates, Keven)

I second Chris's statement about the 8" power handling. An 8" will
handle plenty of power, but I'd still chuck it for a 9" strictly because
parts are easier to come by, and cheaper when you find them, plus it's
only a ~15 lbs. weight penalty anyway.

I had an 8" trac-loc, and gears were expensive, with very limited ratios
available. That's why I sold it and bought a 9" trac-loc for the same
price.

I'd sell the versaille rear. It's O.K. but the following for these
things has become fanatical, so the used prices are outrageous (good for
you). They aren't that great. They require a swapping of the
driveshaft yoke, they aren't that strong for a 9", and they are heavy as
all get out. You'll still have to switch ring gears to get anything but
2.79 ratio.

I'd go for a cheap 9" housing (I bought mine at a swap meet for $100),
trac-loc 9" (I bought a 3.50 ratio trac loc for $300) and keep the 28
spline axles. 31 splines are great, but not necessary unless you plan
on drag racing or using slicks. The exception to that is the older 28
spline axles from the late 50's, which were really weak. There's a way
to tell, something about the necking of the axles, but I don't remember
specifics.

Go for the crown vic rear disks, they're easily installed, fit great on
a small bearing 9" or 8" rear, and are probably about 20 lbs lighter
than the cast iron Versaille disk setup. Plus disks are cheaper and
more available.

Explorer swaps are the same, but they fit on large bearing 9" rears
only.

8.8" rears are fine, but you'd have to have a housing custom made to fit
your perches and width, and that's not cheap.

You could do the 9" trac-loc and crown vic disks for ~$600-$700 total
including disks and all ($300 for a good used 9" trac-loc center, $100
for the axle housing, and $200 for the disk parts). The 8" would be
cheaper since you've already got it, but you won't get trac-loc (unless
you get super super lucky, and when you do, it won't be cheaper). With
a 351W, you'll need all the traction you can get.

As a side point, I had a 3.50 9" and swapped it for a 3.25 gear 9".
3.50 is a little steep of a gear on the street with regular sized rear
tires, even with the T-5. YMMV.

Good luck!

Keven
'68 T-5 302 four wheel disks.

-----Original Message-----
From: classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca
[mailto:classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca] On Behalf Of
Chris Kelly
Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2006 11:32 PM
To: Coates, Keven
Subject: Re: [CM] rear end opinions sought

Leave the 8". As for it not handling power: I call BS. It's good for a
lot
of power if built correctly. We run one in the Mustang and it's
currently a
high 12 second car with 4.11's, slicks and a spool, 28 splines. I can
provide a nice picture of a friends Cougar, wheels in the air for
another
mid 11 second ride - and it was running an 8". Did for years. He did
change to a 9" this year, when he went from a 302 to a 408. Car now
runs
mid/low 10s, maybe 9s.

IMHO - Sell the Versailles to fund the disk conversion.

=====================================
Chris Kelly - ckelly at raceabilene.com
raceabilene.com/kelly/hotrod
Merkel, Texas
Member:
International Hot Rod Association
Abilene Performance Car Association
Falcon Club of America
=====================================


> -----Original Message-----
> From: classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca
> [mailto:classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca] On
> Behalf Of Dennis Harrelson
> Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2006 8:51 PM
> To: Chris Kelly
> Subject: [CM] rear end opinions sought
>
> Hi, folks
> It's time to consider what I'm going to do with the rear of
> my mustang. (65 fastback, 302, t-5, mild chassis upgrades,
> Granada Front discs, eventually to be powered by a 351 sefi
> from a 93 Lightning.) I want the rear to be 3.50 +/- posi w/
> discs, and I have 2 choices.
> 1) Rebuild the 8" that's in the car, using one of the several
> disc conversions available, probably Crown Vic or Explorer.
> The advantage here is that the rear is in the car now,
> running and working. There would be no fitment issues other
> than the discs.
> 2) I happen to have a complete 9" from a Versailles laying
> under the bench. It is very rusty, so none of the disc pieces
> are good for anything except cores.
> The advantage here is that all of the disc bits are there,
> down to the e-brake cables. Also it's 9", so performance gear
> stuff is easier to come by. It will, however, involve some
> fangling to mount to the small bearing plates, etc.
> So, any thoughts? Ideas?
> Later,
> Dennis
>
> __________________________________________________
> Do You Yahoo!?
> Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection
> around mail.yahoo.com
> _______________________________________________
> Classic-mustangs mailing list
> Classic-mustangs at lists.twistedpair.ca
> lists.twistedpair.ca/mailman/listinfo.cgi/classic-mustangs
>
> Visit the Classic Mustang Wiki! sauce.donair.org/~cm/
>

_______________________________________________
Classic-mustangs mailing list
Classic-mustangs at lists.twistedpair.ca
lists.twistedpair.ca/mailman/listinfo.cgi/classic-mustangs

Visit the Classic Mustang Wiki! sauce.donair.org/~cm/

This read-only message was archived from a public mail list.
Mail From: rickl (rickl

Dennis,
There are some great advice here. Let me add one more.

If you don't need traction locking rear end, I'd stick with the 8" and
look at the Caddy or Crown Vic disc conversions. If you do need a
locking rear, I'd price out several aftermarket spools/lockers/...
before investing in a 9".

Like others have stated, I'd clean up the Versailles and sell it to fund
your decision. Thes are not only popular with the Mustang groups but
the hot rod guys seem to think they are special too.

Since I like to fab my upgrades, I'm planning to update my original 8"
rear end with an 8.8". These are cheap and are complete with rear disc
brakes and sway bar. I can get them for <$150 complete with 5.55 or
5.73 gears.

As Keven pointed out below, the trick is to get one the right length. I
have one from an Explorer. This comes from the factory with a ~3"
offset to clear the transfer case. You will need to buy an extra short
axle, wack off some axle tubing from the long side and use the two
shorter axles. Cutting, welding, jigs, ... will be required. Plus I'd
rebuild the Traction-lok ($40 at Summit) and brakes may need to be
rebuilt or replaced.

This is not bolt in. This is well documented on the Net and careful use
of Google or other search tools will provide you will all the info.

If you have the tools and ability, a 8.8" may be right for you. Just
don't expect to have this done in a weekend.

rick
--
66 coupe (289, 8", c4 in car, 5.0, 8.8", T5 in the garage)

----- Original Message -----
From: "Coates, Keven" <keven at ti.com>
Date: Wednesday, September 13, 2006 10:35 am
Subject: Re: [CM] rear end opinions sought

> I second Chris's statement about the 8" power handling. An 8" will
> handle plenty of power, but I'd still chuck it for a 9" strictly
> becauseparts are easier to come by, and cheaper when you find them,
> plus it's
> only a ~15 lbs. weight penalty anyway.
>
> I had an 8" trac-loc, and gears were expensive, with very limited
> ratiosavailable. That's why I sold it and bought a 9" trac-loc for
> the same
> price.
>
> I'd sell the versaille rear. It's O.K. but the following for these
> things has become fanatical, so the used prices are outrageous
> (good for
> you). They aren't that great. They require a swapping of the
> driveshaft yoke, they aren't that strong for a 9", and they are
> heavy as
> all get out. You'll still have to switch ring gears to get
> anything but
> 2.79 ratio.
>
> I'd go for a cheap 9" housing (I bought mine at a swap meet for $100),
> trac-loc 9" (I bought a 3.50 ratio trac loc for $300) and keep the 28
> spline axles. 31 splines are great, but not necessary unless you plan
> on drag racing or using slicks. The exception to that is the older 28
> spline axles from the late 50's, which were really weak. There's a
> wayto tell, something about the necking of the axles, but I don't
> rememberspecifics.
>
> Go for the crown vic rear disks, they're easily installed, fit
> great on
> a small bearing 9" or 8" rear, and are probably about 20 lbs lighter
> than the cast iron Versaille disk setup. Plus disks are cheaper and
> more available.
>
> Explorer swaps are the same, but they fit on large bearing 9" rears
> only.
>
> 8.8" rears are fine, but you'd have to have a housing custom made
> to fit
> your perches and width, and that's not cheap.
>
> You could do the 9" trac-loc and crown vic disks for ~$600-$700 total
> including disks and all ($300 for a good used 9" trac-loc center, $100
> for the axle housing, and $200 for the disk parts). The 8" would be
> cheaper since you've already got it, but you won't get trac-loc
> (unlessyou get super super lucky, and when you do, it won't be
> cheaper). With
> a 351W, you'll need all the traction you can get.
>
> As a side point, I had a 3.50 9" and swapped it for a 3.25 gear 9".
> 3.50 is a little steep of a gear on the street with regular sized rear
> tires, even with the T-5. YMMV.
>
> Good luck!
>
> Keven
> '68 T-5 302 four wheel disks.
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca
> [mailto:classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca] On Behalf Of
> Chris Kelly
> Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2006 11:32 PM
> To: Coates, Keven
> Subject: Re: [CM] rear end opinions sought
>
> Leave the 8". As for it not handling power: I call BS. It's good
> for a
> lot
> of power if built correctly. We run one in the Mustang and it's
> currently a
> high 12 second car with 4.11's, slicks and a spool, 28 splines. I can
> provide a nice picture of a friends Cougar, wheels in the air for
> another
> mid 11 second ride - and it was running an 8". Did for years. He did
> change to a 9" this year, when he went from a 302 to a 408. Car now
> runs
> mid/low 10s, maybe 9s.
>
> IMHO - Sell the Versailles to fund the disk conversion.
>
> =====================================
> Chris Kelly - ckelly at raceabilene.com
> raceabilene.com/kelly/hotrod
> Merkel, Texas
> Member:
> International Hot Rod Association
> Abilene Performance Car Association
> Falcon Club of America
> =====================================
>
>
> > -----Original Message-----
> > From: classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca
> > [mailto:classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca] On
> > Behalf Of Dennis Harrelson
> > Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2006 8:51 PM
> > To: Chris Kelly
> > Subject: [CM] rear end opinions sought
> >
> > Hi, folks
> > It's time to consider what I'm going to do with the rear of
> > my mustang. (65 fastback, 302, t-5, mild chassis upgrades,
> > Granada Front discs, eventually to be powered by a 351 sefi
> > from a 93 Lightning.) I want the rear to be 3.50 +/- posi w/
> > discs, and I have 2 choices.
> > 1) Rebuild the 8" that's in the car, using one of the several
> > disc conversions available, probably Crown Vic or Explorer.
> > The advantage here is that the rear is in the car now,
> > running and working. There would be no fitment issues other
> > than the discs.
> > 2) I happen to have a complete 9" from a Versailles laying
> > under the bench. It is very rusty, so none of the disc pieces
> > are good for anything except cores.
> > The advantage here is that all of the disc bits are there,
> > down to the e-brake cables. Also it's 9", so performance gear
> > stuff is easier to come by. It will, however, involve some
> > fangling to mount to the small bearing plates, etc.
> > So, any thoughts? Ideas?
> > Later,
> > Dennis

This read-only message was archived from a public mail list.
Mail From: keven (Coates, Keven)

Rick,

That's a neat trick! If I had known that, I might have looked into that
a little closer. I hope you mean 3.55 or 3.73 gears! 5.55 might be a
little high for the street!

I agree, although I didn't implicitly state it. If you are going to
stay with an open rear, the 8" is the way to go. It'll handle plenty of
power, but you'll be wanting for traction with any kind of torque. I
want traction now, and I've only got a hot 302 with an open rear. I'm
already running a 245/50/16 tire, which helps, but the open rear kills
it in the corners.

The T-5 first gear is such a great low gear that you'll definitely want
some sort of limited slip, especially if you like corners.

I've priced all the 8" limited slip options. They aren't cheap, except
for a spool, which is only useful on the strip.

Keven

-----Original Message-----
From: classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca
[mailto:classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca] On Behalf Of
rickl at mn.rr.com
Sent: Wednesday, September 13, 2006 11:40 AM
To: Coates, Keven
Subject: Re: [CM] rear end opinions sought

Dennis,
There are some great advice here. Let me add one more.

If you don't need traction locking rear end, I'd stick with the 8" and
look at the Caddy or Crown Vic disc conversions. If you do need a
locking rear, I'd price out several aftermarket spools/lockers/...
before investing in a 9".

Like others have stated, I'd clean up the Versailles and sell it to fund
your decision. Thes are not only popular with the Mustang groups but
the hot rod guys seem to think they are special too.

Since I like to fab my upgrades, I'm planning to update my original 8"
rear end with an 8.8". These are cheap and are complete with rear disc
brakes and sway bar. I can get them for <$150 complete with 5.55 or
5.73 gears.

As Keven pointed out below, the trick is to get one the right length. I
have one from an Explorer. This comes from the factory with a ~3"
offset to clear the transfer case. You will need to buy an extra short
axle, wack off some axle tubing from the long side and use the two
shorter axles. Cutting, welding, jigs, ... will be required. Plus I'd
rebuild the Traction-lok ($40 at Summit) and brakes may need to be
rebuilt or replaced.

This is not bolt in. This is well documented on the Net and careful use
of Google or other search tools will provide you will all the info.

If you have the tools and ability, a 8.8" may be right for you. Just
don't expect to have this done in a weekend.

rick
--
66 coupe (289, 8", c4 in car, 5.0, 8.8", T5 in the garage)

----- Original Message -----
From: "Coates, Keven" <keven at ti.com>
Date: Wednesday, September 13, 2006 10:35 am
Subject: Re: [CM] rear end opinions sought

> I second Chris's statement about the 8" power handling. An 8" will
> handle plenty of power, but I'd still chuck it for a 9" strictly
> becauseparts are easier to come by, and cheaper when you find them,
> plus it's
> only a ~15 lbs. weight penalty anyway.
>
> I had an 8" trac-loc, and gears were expensive, with very limited
> ratiosavailable. That's why I sold it and bought a 9" trac-loc for
> the same
> price.
>
> I'd sell the versaille rear. It's O.K. but the following for these
> things has become fanatical, so the used prices are outrageous
> (good for
> you). They aren't that great. They require a swapping of the
> driveshaft yoke, they aren't that strong for a 9", and they are
> heavy as
> all get out. You'll still have to switch ring gears to get
> anything but
> 2.79 ratio.
>
> I'd go for a cheap 9" housing (I bought mine at a swap meet for $100),
> trac-loc 9" (I bought a 3.50 ratio trac loc for $300) and keep the 28
> spline axles. 31 splines are great, but not necessary unless you plan
> on drag racing or using slicks. The exception to that is the older 28
> spline axles from the late 50's, which were really weak. There's a
> wayto tell, something about the necking of the axles, but I don't
> rememberspecifics.
>
> Go for the crown vic rear disks, they're easily installed, fit
> great on
> a small bearing 9" or 8" rear, and are probably about 20 lbs lighter
> than the cast iron Versaille disk setup. Plus disks are cheaper and
> more available.
>
> Explorer swaps are the same, but they fit on large bearing 9" rears
> only.
>
> 8.8" rears are fine, but you'd have to have a housing custom made
> to fit
> your perches and width, and that's not cheap.
>
> You could do the 9" trac-loc and crown vic disks for ~$600-$700 total
> including disks and all ($300 for a good used 9" trac-loc center, $100
> for the axle housing, and $200 for the disk parts). The 8" would be
> cheaper since you've already got it, but you won't get trac-loc
> (unlessyou get super super lucky, and when you do, it won't be
> cheaper). With
> a 351W, you'll need all the traction you can get.
>
> As a side point, I had a 3.50 9" and swapped it for a 3.25 gear 9".
> 3.50 is a little steep of a gear on the street with regular sized rear
> tires, even with the T-5. YMMV.
>
> Good luck!
>
> Keven
> '68 T-5 302 four wheel disks.
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca
> [mailto:classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca] On Behalf Of
> Chris Kelly
> Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2006 11:32 PM
> To: Coates, Keven
> Subject: Re: [CM] rear end opinions sought
>
> Leave the 8". As for it not handling power: I call BS. It's good
> for a
> lot
> of power if built correctly. We run one in the Mustang and it's
> currently a
> high 12 second car with 4.11's, slicks and a spool, 28 splines. I can
> provide a nice picture of a friends Cougar, wheels in the air for
> another
> mid 11 second ride - and it was running an 8". Did for years. He did
> change to a 9" this year, when he went from a 302 to a 408. Car now
> runs
> mid/low 10s, maybe 9s.
>
> IMHO - Sell the Versailles to fund the disk conversion.
>
> =====================================
> Chris Kelly - ckelly at raceabilene.com
> raceabilene.com/kelly/hotrod
> Merkel, Texas
> Member:
> International Hot Rod Association
> Abilene Performance Car Association
> Falcon Club of America
> =====================================
>
>
> > -----Original Message-----
> > From: classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca
> > [mailto:classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca] On
> > Behalf Of Dennis Harrelson
> > Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2006 8:51 PM
> > To: Chris Kelly
> > Subject: [CM] rear end opinions sought
> >
> > Hi, folks
> > It's time to consider what I'm going to do with the rear of
> > my mustang. (65 fastback, 302, t-5, mild chassis upgrades,
> > Granada Front discs, eventually to be powered by a 351 sefi
> > from a 93 Lightning.) I want the rear to be 3.50 +/- posi w/
> > discs, and I have 2 choices.
> > 1) Rebuild the 8" that's in the car, using one of the several
> > disc conversions available, probably Crown Vic or Explorer.
> > The advantage here is that the rear is in the car now,
> > running and working. There would be no fitment issues other
> > than the discs.
> > 2) I happen to have a complete 9" from a Versailles laying
> > under the bench. It is very rusty, so none of the disc pieces
> > are good for anything except cores.
> > The advantage here is that all of the disc bits are there,
> > down to the e-brake cables. Also it's 9", so performance gear
> > stuff is easier to come by. It will, however, involve some
> > fangling to mount to the small bearing plates, etc.
> > So, any thoughts? Ideas?
> > Later,
> > Dennis

_______________________________________________
Classic-mustangs mailing list
Classic-mustangs at lists.twistedpair.ca
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Mail From: d_harrelson (Dennis Harrelson)

David,
I think for my purposes (weekend cruising, and as many
Fundays at Nelson Ledges as I can cram into my time)
The 8" will be strong enough, the lightning is rated
at 240hp, 340 ft-lb, and I'll only mildly build it. I
suspect the two rears will be about the same cost to
rebuild with gears and posi, which leaves the
question, what would be the easier fangle: putting the
versailles under the stang, or putting the crown vic
brakes on the 8"? I was under the impression that the
versailles pads would fit, and the overall width is
only 1" more than the stang. I haven't bothered to
measure it yet, though.
Thanks for the info,
Dennis

--- David <W427 at comcast.net> wrote:

> Hi Dennis -
>
> You're a bit stuck here, as the 8" is reliable but
> not with any power to
> speak of. Although you could upgrade to an
> aftermarket (Strange) center
> section to handle the 360hp of the Lightning engine
> with a new
> limited-slip or locker, the cost would be quite high
> and you still have
> 28 spline axles that won't take fat or sticky tires
> and a 5-speed for
> long at track time.
>
> On the other hand, the 9" is strong and 31-spline
> 3.50 centers are
> inexpensive when salvaged from pickups and vans,
> requiring only a
> bearing kit and either clutches for the Trak-Loc or
> a No-Slip type
> locking insert for an open diff. On the downside,
> the 9" housing will
> require shortening and spring perches along with
> matching axles to fit
> the cheap center. So, you'll end-up having a chunk
> of change in either
> setup. Probably less cash in the stronger 9" but
> more work.
>
> The last option is the 8.8" rear that has a
> following. I won't even get
> into the IRS types. The 8.8 will take the 351 and
> can be found
> relatively easily with 3.27 to 4.11 gears and
> limited-slip. Mods would
> equate the 9" but it may have discs already. Not a
> big plus as the
> Crown Vic conversions will also just need
> rebuilding.
>
> My personal choice would be either the beefed 8" and
> figure you may need
> to get a spare set of axles and no tweaking of the
> 351 nor slicks. Or a
> 9" using a Mustang/Cougar/Maverick housing with
> small ends so you don't
> have to also redo other stuff for the big
> Versailles/Granola tube.
> There seems to be a guy in every area that has a
> rearend jig for 9's and
> will shorten and weld perches for a reasonable
> price. Check with the
> local early (1930s thru '50s) hotrod clubs as they
> have more 'buddies'
> willing to be heroes for a good cause. ;-)
>
> David
>
> Dennis Harrelson wrote:
> > Hi, folks
> > It's time to consider what I'm going to do with
> the
> > rear of my mustang. (65 fastback, 302, t-5, mild
> > chassis upgrades, Granada Front discs, eventually
> to
> > be powered by a 351 sefi from a 93 Lightning.) I
> want
> > the rear to be 3.50 +/- posi w/ discs, and I have
> 2
> > choices.
> > 1) Rebuild the 8" that's in the car, using one of
> the
> > several disc conversions available, probably Crown
> Vic
> > or Explorer. The advantage here is that the rear
> is in
> > the car now, running and working. There would be
> no
> > fitment issues other than the discs.
> > 2) I happen to have a complete 9" from a
> Versailles
> > laying under the bench. It is very rusty, so none
> of
> > the disc pieces are good for anything except
> cores.
> > The advantage here is that all of the disc bits
> are
> > there, down to the e-brake cables. Also it's 9",
> so
> > performance gear stuff is easier to come by. It
> will,
> > however, involve some fangling to mount to the
> small
> > bearing plates, etc.
> > So, any thoughts? Ideas?
> > Later,
> > Dennis
> _______________________________________________
> Classic-mustangs mailing list
> Classic-mustangs at lists.twistedpair.ca
>
lists.twistedpair.ca/mailman/listinfo.cgi/classic-mustangs
>
> Visit the Classic Mustang Wiki!
> sauce.donair.org/~cm/
>


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Mail From: d_harrelson (Dennis Harrelson)

Chris,
Actually,that's the way I'm leaning. Just wondered
what some other takes might be.
Thanks,
Dennis

--- Chris Kelly <ckelly at raceabilene.com> wrote:

> Leave the 8". As for it not handling power: I call
> BS. It's good for a lot
> of power if built correctly. We run one in the
> Mustang and it's currently a
> high 12 second car with 4.11's, slicks and a spool,
> 28 splines. I can
> provide a nice picture of a friends Cougar, wheels
> in the air for another
> mid 11 second ride - and it was running an 8". Did
> for years. He did
> change to a 9" this year, when he went from a 302 to
> a 408. Car now runs
> mid/low 10s, maybe 9s.
>
> IMHO - Sell the Versailles to fund the disk
> conversion.
>
> =====================================
> Chris Kelly - ckelly at raceabilene.com
> raceabilene.com/kelly/hotrod
> Merkel, Texas
> Member:
> International Hot Rod Association
> Abilene Performance Car Association
> Falcon Club of America
> =====================================
>
>
> > -----Original Message-----
> > From:
> classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca
> >
>
[mailto:classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca]
> On
> > Behalf Of Dennis Harrelson
> > Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2006 8:51 PM
> > To: Chris Kelly
> > Subject: [CM] rear end opinions sought
> >
> > Hi, folks
> > It's time to consider what I'm going to do with
> the rear of
> > my mustang. (65 fastback, 302, t-5, mild chassis
> upgrades,
> > Granada Front discs, eventually to be powered by a
> 351 sefi
> > from a 93 Lightning.) I want the rear to be 3.50
> +/- posi w/
> > discs, and I have 2 choices.
> > 1) Rebuild the 8" that's in the car, using one of
> the several
> > disc conversions available, probably Crown Vic or
> Explorer.
> > The advantage here is that the rear is in the car
> now,
> > running and working. There would be no fitment
> issues other
> > than the discs.
> > 2) I happen to have a complete 9" from a
> Versailles laying
> > under the bench. It is very rusty, so none of the
> disc pieces
> > are good for anything except cores.
> > The advantage here is that all of the disc bits
> are there,
> > down to the e-brake cables. Also it's 9", so
> performance gear
> > stuff is easier to come by. It will, however,
> involve some
> > fangling to mount to the small bearing plates,
> etc.
> > So, any thoughts? Ideas?
> > Later,
> > Dennis
> >
> > __________________________________________________
> > Do You Yahoo!?
> > Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam
> protection
> > around mail.yahoo.com
> > _______________________________________________
> > Classic-mustangs mailing list
> > Classic-mustangs at lists.twistedpair.ca
> >
>
lists.twistedpair.ca/mailman/listinfo.cgi/classic-mustangs
> >
> > Visit the Classic Mustang Wiki!
> sauce.donair.org/~cm/
> >
>
> _______________________________________________
> Classic-mustangs mailing list
> Classic-mustangs at lists.twistedpair.ca
>
lists.twistedpair.ca/mailman/listinfo.cgi/classic-mustangs
>
> Visit the Classic Mustang Wiki!
> sauce.donair.org/~cm/
>


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Mail From: d_harrelson (Dennis Harrelson)



--- "Coates, Keven" <keven at ti.com> wrote:

> I second Chris's statement about the 8" power
> handling. An 8" will
> handle plenty of power, but I'd still chuck it for a
> 9" strictly because
> parts are easier to come by, and cheaper when you
> find them, plus it's
> only a ~15 lbs. weight penalty anyway.

I'm sure the 8" will be robust enough for me.

> I had an 8" trac-loc, and gears were expensive, with
> very limited ratios
> available. That's why I sold it and bought a 9"
> trac-loc for the same
> price.

My search for 8" stuff is what prompted the question.

> I'd sell the versaille rear. It's O.K. but the
> following for these
> things has become fanatical, so the used prices are
> outrageous (good for
> you). They aren't that great. They require a
> swapping of the
> driveshaft yoke, they aren't that strong for a 9",
> and they are heavy as
> all get out. You'll still have to switch ring gears
> to get anything but
> 2.79 ratio.
>
> I'd go for a cheap 9" housing (I bought mine at a
> swap meet for $100),
> trac-loc 9" (I bought a 3.50 ratio trac loc for
> $300) and keep the 28
> spline axles. 31 splines are great, but not
> necessary unless you plan
> on drag racing or using slicks. The exception to
> that is the older 28
> spline axles from the late 50's, which were really
> weak. There's a way
> to tell, something about the necking of the axles,
> but I don't remember
> specifics.
>
> Go for the crown vic rear disks, they're easily
> installed, fit great on
> a small bearing 9" or 8" rear, and are probably
> about 20 lbs lighter
> than the cast iron Versaille disk setup. Plus disks
> are cheaper and
> more available.
>
> Explorer swaps are the same, but they fit on large
> bearing 9" rears
> only.
>
> 8.8" rears are fine, but you'd have to have a
> housing custom made to fit
> your perches and width, and that's not cheap.
>
> You could do the 9" trac-loc and crown vic disks for
> ~$600-$700 total
> including disks and all ($300 for a good used 9"
> trac-loc center, $100
> for the axle housing, and $200 for the disk parts).
> The 8" would be
> cheaper since you've already got it, but you won't
> get trac-loc (unless
> you get super super lucky, and when you do, it won't
> be cheaper). With
> a 351W, you'll need all the traction you can get.

I really hadn't considered buying yet a third rear,
but it may be a thought. Depends on what it looks like
the versailles might be worth, I guess.

> As a side point, I had a 3.50 9" and swapped it for
> a 3.25 gear 9".
> 3.50 is a little steep of a gear on the street with
> regular sized rear
> tires, even with the T-5. YMMV.

Yeah, that's another question. The lightning has
4.10's, but it wears 275-60 17's, and the O.D. might
be steeper, also.

> Good luck!
>
> Keven
> '68 T-5 302 four wheel disks.

Thanks,
Dennis



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Mail From: d_harrelson (Dennis Harrelson)

Rick,
Yeah, I'm really leaning toward the 8". especially if
I can get some money from the versaille rear.
Man. What did those 8.8's come from with those ratios?
5.55? 5.73?
Later,
Dennis

--- rickl at mn.rr.com wrote:

> Dennis,
> There are some great advice here. Let me add one
> more.
>
> If you don't need traction locking rear end, I'd
> stick with the 8" and
> look at the Caddy or Crown Vic disc conversions. If
> you do need a
> locking rear, I'd price out several aftermarket
> spools/lockers/...
> before investing in a 9".
>
> Like others have stated, I'd clean up the Versailles
> and sell it to fund
> your decision. Thes are not only popular with the
> Mustang groups but
> the hot rod guys seem to think they are special too.
>
> Since I like to fab my upgrades, I'm planning to
> update my original 8"
> rear end with an 8.8". These are cheap and are
> complete with rear disc
> brakes and sway bar. I can get them for <$150
> complete with 5.55 or
> 5.73 gears.
>
> As Keven pointed out below, the trick is to get one
> the right length. I
> have one from an Explorer. This comes from the
> factory with a ~3"
> offset to clear the transfer case. You will need to
> buy an extra short
> axle, wack off some axle tubing from the long side
> and use the two
> shorter axles. Cutting, welding, jigs, ... will be
> required. Plus I'd
> rebuild the Traction-lok ($40 at Summit) and brakes
> may need to be
> rebuilt or replaced.
>
> This is not bolt in. This is well documented on the
> Net and careful use
> of Google or other search tools will provide you
> will all the info.
>
> If you have the tools and ability, a 8.8" may be
> right for you. Just
> don't expect to have this done in a weekend.
>
> rick
> --
> 66 coupe (289, 8", c4 in car, 5.0, 8.8", T5 in the
> garage)
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Coates, Keven" <keven at ti.com>
> Date: Wednesday, September 13, 2006 10:35 am
> Subject: Re: [CM] rear end opinions sought
>
> > I second Chris's statement about the 8" power
> handling. An 8" will
> > handle plenty of power, but I'd still chuck it for
> a 9" strictly
> > becauseparts are easier to come by, and cheaper
> when you find them,
> > plus it's
> > only a ~15 lbs. weight penalty anyway.
> >
> > I had an 8" trac-loc, and gears were expensive,
> with very limited
> > ratiosavailable. That's why I sold it and bought
> a 9" trac-loc for
> > the same
> > price.
> >
> > I'd sell the versaille rear. It's O.K. but the
> following for these
> > things has become fanatical, so the used prices
> are outrageous
> > (good for
> > you). They aren't that great. They require a
> swapping of the
> > driveshaft yoke, they aren't that strong for a 9",
> and they are
> > heavy as
> > all get out. You'll still have to switch ring
> gears to get
> > anything but
> > 2.79 ratio.
> >
> > I'd go for a cheap 9" housing (I bought mine at a
> swap meet for $100),
> > trac-loc 9" (I bought a 3.50 ratio trac loc for
> $300) and keep the 28
> > spline axles. 31 splines are great, but not
> necessary unless you plan
> > on drag racing or using slicks. The exception to
> that is the older 28
> > spline axles from the late 50's, which were really
> weak. There's a
> > wayto tell, something about the necking of the
> axles, but I don't
> > rememberspecifics.
> >
> > Go for the crown vic rear disks, they're easily
> installed, fit
> > great on
> > a small bearing 9" or 8" rear, and are probably
> about 20 lbs lighter
> > than the cast iron Versaille disk setup. Plus
> disks are cheaper and
> > more available.
> >
> > Explorer swaps are the same, but they fit on large
> bearing 9" rears
> > only.
> >
> > 8.8" rears are fine, but you'd have to have a
> housing custom made
> > to fit
> > your perches and width, and that's not cheap.
> >
> > You could do the 9" trac-loc and crown vic disks
> for ~$600-$700 total
> > including disks and all ($300 for a good used 9"
> trac-loc center, $100
> > for the axle housing, and $200 for the disk
> parts). The 8" would be
> > cheaper since you've already got it, but you won't
> get trac-loc
> > (unlessyou get super super lucky, and when you do,
> it won't be
> > cheaper). With
> > a 351W, you'll need all the traction you can get.
> >
> > As a side point, I had a 3.50 9" and swapped it
> for a 3.25 gear 9".
> > 3.50 is a little steep of a gear on the street
> with regular sized rear
> > tires, even with the T-5. YMMV.
> >
> > Good luck!
> >
> > Keven
> > '68 T-5 302 four wheel disks.
> >
> > -----Original Message-----
> > From:
> classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca
> >
>
[mailto:classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca]
> On Behalf Of
> > Chris Kelly
> > Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2006 11:32 PM
> > To: Coates, Keven
> > Subject: Re: [CM] rear end opinions sought
> >
> > Leave the 8". As for it not handling power: I
> call BS. It's good
> > for a
> > lot
> > of power if built correctly. We run one in the
> Mustang and it's
> > currently a
> > high 12 second car with 4.11's, slicks and a
> spool, 28 splines. I can
> > provide a nice picture of a friends Cougar, wheels
> in the air for
> > another
> > mid 11 second ride - and it was running an 8".
> Did for years. He did
> > change to a 9" this year, when he went from a 302
> to a 408. Car now
> > runs
> > mid/low 10s, maybe 9s.
> >
> > IMHO - Sell the Versailles to fund the disk
> conversion.
> >
> > =====================================
> > Chris Kelly - ckelly at raceabilene.com
> > raceabilene.com/kelly/hotrod
> > Merkel, Texas
> > Member:
> > International Hot Rod Association
> > Abilene Performance Car Association
> > Falcon Club of America
> > =====================================
> >
> >
> > > -----Original Message-----
> > > From:
> classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca
> > >
>
[mailto:classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca]
> On
> > > Behalf Of Dennis Harrelson
> > > Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2006 8:51 PM
> > > To: Chris Kelly
> > > Subject: [CM] rear end opinions sought
> > >
>
=== message truncated ===


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Mail From: W427 (David)

In that case - just go for the Crown Vic discs on the 8" and cruise
happy :-) Heck - if the rear is otherwise solid, then I'd just install
a No-Slip insert with gears and be done with it!

David

Dennis Harrelson wrote:
> ...which leaves the
> question, what would be the easier fangle: putting the
> versailles under the stang, or putting the crown vic
> brakes on the 8"?

This read-only message was archived from a public mail list.
Mail From: keven (Coates, Keven)

A no-slip insert? You mean like the one from Currie for only
~$500-$600?

Keven

-----Original Message-----
From: classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca
[mailto:classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca] On Behalf Of
David
Sent: Wednesday, September 13, 2006 3:58 PM
To: Coates, Keven
Subject: Re: [CM] rear end opinions sought

In that case - just go for the Crown Vic discs on the 8" and cruise
happy :-) Heck - if the rear is otherwise solid, then I'd just install

a No-Slip insert with gears and be done with it!

David

Dennis Harrelson wrote:
> ...which leaves the
> question, what would be the easier fangle: putting the
> versailles under the stang, or putting the crown vic
> brakes on the 8"?
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Classic-mustangs at lists.twistedpair.ca
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Mail From: W427 (David)

No, like the Powertrax (now Richmond) No-Slip or Lock-Right locking
inserts like this:
richmondgear.com/01pdfs/PTRAXAPP.pdf
and sold on eBay by Summit Racing for $261 like this:
301url.com/8or9lockright

They work very well and just like a Detroit Locker but with generally
less clicking and crunching that the Detroit Lockers are so well known
for. You'll see that the #1810 fits both the 8" and the 9" Ford rears
with either 28 or 31 spline axles. They have made a good name for
themselves in both drag racing and offroading. I purchased a No-Slip
when they were made by PowerTrax and haven't looked back. Very popular
because you don't have to change the carrier - just the spider gears in
it in an afternoon with no special tools. I have seen articles covering
these in most car mags.

FWIW,
David

Coates, Keven wrote:
> A no-slip insert? You mean like the one from Currie for only
> ~$500-$600?
>
> Keven

This read-only message was archived from a public mail list.
Mail From: ckelly (Chris Kelly)

Others make a good point on parts availability. Check with Currie because
they seem to have the best inventory. Nothing wrong with going to a 9, but
they are heavier. However you can set one up just about any way you like,

=====================================
Chris Kelly - ckelly at raceabilene.com
raceabilene.com/kelly/hotrod
Merkel, Texas
Member:
International Hot Rod Association
Abilene Performance Car Association
Falcon Club of America
=====================================


> -----Original Message-----
> From: classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca
> [mailto:classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca] On
> Behalf Of Dennis Harrelson
> Sent: Wednesday, September 13, 2006 3:31 PM
> To: Chris Kelly
> Subject: Re: [CM] rear end opinions sought
>
> Chris,
> Actually,that's the way I'm leaning. Just wondered what some
> other takes might be.
> Thanks,
> Dennis
>
> --- Chris Kelly <ckelly at raceabilene.com> wrote:
>
> > Leave the 8". As for it not handling power: I call BS.
> It's good for
> > a lot of power if built correctly. We run one in the
> Mustang and it's
> > currently a high 12 second car with 4.11's, slicks and a spool,
> > 28 splines. I can
> > provide a nice picture of a friends Cougar, wheels in the air for
> > another mid 11 second ride - and it was running an 8". Did
> for years.
> > He did change to a 9" this year, when he went from a 302 to a 408.
> > Car now runs mid/low 10s, maybe 9s.
> >
> > IMHO - Sell the Versailles to fund the disk conversion.
> >
> > =====================================
> > Chris Kelly - ckelly at raceabilene.com
> > raceabilene.com/kelly/hotrod
> > Merkel, Texas
> > Member:
> > International Hot Rod Association
> > Abilene Performance Car Association
> > Falcon Club of America
> > =====================================
> >
> >
> > > -----Original Message-----
> > > From:
> > classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca
> > >
> >
> [mailto:classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca]
> > On
> > > Behalf Of Dennis Harrelson
> > > Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2006 8:51 PM
> > > To: Chris Kelly
> > > Subject: [CM] rear end opinions sought
> > >
> > > Hi, folks
> > > It's time to consider what I'm going to do with
> > the rear of
> > > my mustang. (65 fastback, 302, t-5, mild chassis
> > upgrades,
> > > Granada Front discs, eventually to be powered by a
> > 351 sefi
> > > from a 93 Lightning.) I want the rear to be 3.50
> > +/- posi w/
> > > discs, and I have 2 choices.
> > > 1) Rebuild the 8" that's in the car, using one of
> > the several
> > > disc conversions available, probably Crown Vic or
> > Explorer.
> > > The advantage here is that the rear is in the car
> > now,
> > > running and working. There would be no fitment
> > issues other
> > > than the discs.
> > > 2) I happen to have a complete 9" from a
> > Versailles laying
> > > under the bench. It is very rusty, so none of the
> > disc pieces
> > > are good for anything except cores.
> > > The advantage here is that all of the disc bits
> > are there,
> > > down to the e-brake cables. Also it's 9", so
> > performance gear
> > > stuff is easier to come by. It will, however,
> > involve some
> > > fangling to mount to the small bearing plates,
> > etc.
> > > So, any thoughts? Ideas?
> > > Later,
> > > Dennis
> > >
> > > __________________________________________________
> > > Do You Yahoo!?
> > > Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam
> > protection
> > > around mail.yahoo.com
> > > _______________________________________________
> > > Classic-mustangs mailing list
> > > Classic-mustangs at lists.twistedpair.ca
> > >
> >
> lists.twistedpair.ca/mailman/listinfo.cgi/classic-mustangs
> > >
> > > Visit the Classic Mustang Wiki!
> > sauce.donair.org/~cm/
> > >
> >
> > _______________________________________________
> > Classic-mustangs mailing list
> > Classic-mustangs at lists.twistedpair.ca
> >
> lists.twistedpair.ca/mailman/listinfo.cgi/classic-mustangs
> >
> > Visit the Classic Mustang Wiki!
> > sauce.donair.org/~cm/
> >
>
>
> __________________________________________________
> Do You Yahoo!?
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> _______________________________________________
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>
> Visit the Classic Mustang Wiki! sauce.donair.org/~cm/
>

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Mail From: rickl (rickl

Oops! 3.55 and 3.73 gears. Explorers.

Sorry about that.

rick

----- Original Message -----
From: Dennis Harrelson <d_harrelson at yahoo.com>
Date: Wednesday, September 13, 2006 3:49 pm
Subject: Re: [CM] rear end opinions sought
To: rickl at mn.rr.com

> Rick,
> Yeah, I'm really leaning toward the 8". especially if
> I can get some money from the versaille rear.
> Man. What did those 8.8's come from with those ratios?
> 5.55? 5.73?
> Later,
> Dennis
>
> --- rickl at mn.rr.com wrote:
>
> > Dennis,
> > There are some great advice here. Let me add one
> > more.
> >
> > If you don't need traction locking rear end, I'd
> > stick with the 8" and
> > look at the Caddy or Crown Vic disc conversions. If
> > you do need a
> > locking rear, I'd price out several aftermarket
> > spools/lockers/...
> > before investing in a 9".
> >
> > Like others have stated, I'd clean up the Versailles
> > and sell it to fund
> > your decision. Thes are not only popular with the
> > Mustang groups but
> > the hot rod guys seem to think they are special too.
> >
> > Since I like to fab my upgrades, I'm planning to
> > update my original 8"
> > rear end with an 8.8". These are cheap and are
> > complete with rear disc
> > brakes and sway bar. I can get them for <$150
> > complete with 5.55 or
> > 5.73 gears.
> >
> > As Keven pointed out below, the trick is to get one
> > the right length. I
> > have one from an Explorer. This comes from the
> > factory with a ~3"
> > offset to clear the transfer case. You will need to
> > buy an extra short
> > axle, wack off some axle tubing from the long side
> > and use the two
> > shorter axles. Cutting, welding, jigs, ... will be
> > required. Plus I'd
> > rebuild the Traction-lok ($40 at Summit) and brakes
> > may need to be
> > rebuilt or replaced.
> >
> > This is not bolt in. This is well documented on the
> > Net and careful use
> > of Google or other search tools will provide you
> > will all the info.
> >
> > If you have the tools and ability, a 8.8" may be
> > right for you. Just
> > don't expect to have this done in a weekend.
> >
> > rick
> > --
> > 66 coupe (289, 8", c4 in car, 5.0, 8.8", T5 in the
> > garage)
> >
> > ----- Original Message -----
> > From: "Coates, Keven" <keven at ti.com>
> > Date: Wednesday, September 13, 2006 10:35 am
> > Subject: Re: [CM] rear end opinions sought
> >
> > > I second Chris's statement about the 8" power
> > handling. An 8" will
> > > handle plenty of power, but I'd still chuck it for
> > a 9" strictly
> > > becauseparts are easier to come by, and cheaper
> > when you find them,
> > > plus it's
> > > only a ~15 lbs. weight penalty anyway.
> > >
> > > I had an 8" trac-loc, and gears were expensive,
> > with very limited
> > > ratiosavailable. That's why I sold it and bought
> > a 9" trac-loc for
> > > the same
> > > price.
> > >
> > > I'd sell the versaille rear. It's O.K. but the
> > following for these
> > > things has become fanatical, so the used prices
> > are outrageous
> > > (good for
> > > you). They aren't that great. They require a
> > swapping of the
> > > driveshaft yoke, they aren't that strong for a 9",
> > and they are
> > > heavy as
> > > all get out. You'll still have to switch ring
> > gears to get
> > > anything but
> > > 2.79 ratio.
> > >
> > > I'd go for a cheap 9" housing (I bought mine at a
> > swap meet for $100),
> > > trac-loc 9" (I bought a 3.50 ratio trac loc for
> > $300) and keep the 28
> > > spline axles. 31 splines are great, but not
> > necessary unless you plan
> > > on drag racing or using slicks. The exception to
> > that is the older 28
> > > spline axles from the late 50's, which were really
> > weak. There's a
> > > wayto tell, something about the necking of the
> > axles, but I don't
> > > rememberspecifics.
> > >
> > > Go for the crown vic rear disks, they're easily
> > installed, fit
> > > great on
> > > a small bearing 9" or 8" rear, and are probably
> > about 20 lbs lighter
> > > than the cast iron Versaille disk setup. Plus
> > disks are cheaper and
> > > more available.
> > >
> > > Explorer swaps are the same, but they fit on large
> > bearing 9" rears
> > > only.
> > >
> > > 8.8" rears are fine, but you'd have to have a
> > housing custom made
> > > to fit
> > > your perches and width, and that's not cheap.
> > >
> > > You could do the 9" trac-loc and crown vic disks
> > for ~$600-$700 total
> > > including disks and all ($300 for a good used 9"
> > trac-loc center, $100
> > > for the axle housing, and $200 for the disk
> > parts). The 8" would be
> > > cheaper since you've already got it, but you won't
> > get trac-loc
> > > (unlessyou get super super lucky, and when you do,
> > it won't be
> > > cheaper). With
> > > a 351W, you'll need all the traction you can get.
> > >
> > > As a side point, I had a 3.50 9" and swapped it
> > for a 3.25 gear 9".
> > > 3.50 is a little steep of a gear on the street
> > with regular sized rear
> > > tires, even with the T-5. YMMV.
> > >
> > > Good luck!
> > >
> > > Keven
> > > '68 T-5 302 four wheel disks.
> > >
> > > -----Original Message-----
> > > From:
> > classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca
> > >
> >
> [mailto:classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca]
> > On Behalf Of
> > > Chris Kelly
> > > Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2006 11:32 PM
> > > To: Coates, Keven
> > > Subject: Re: [CM] rear end opinions sought
> > >
> > > Leave the 8". As for it not handling power: I
> > call BS. It's good
> > > for a
> > > lot
> > > of power if built correctly. We run one in the
> > Mustang and it's
> > > currently a
> > > high 12 second car with 4.11's, slicks and a
> > spool, 28 splines. I can
> > > provide a nice picture of a friends Cougar, wheels
> > in the air for
> > > another
> > > mid 11 second ride - and it was running an 8".
> > Did for years. He did
> > > change to a 9" this year, when he went from a 302
> > to a 408. Car now
> > > runs
> > > mid/low 10s, maybe 9s.
> > >
> > > IMHO - Sell the Versailles to fund the disk
> > conversion.
> > >
> > > =====================================
> > > Chris Kelly - ckelly at raceabilene.com
> > > raceabilene.com/kelly/hotrod
> > > Merkel, Texas
> > > Member:
> > > International Hot Rod Association
> > > Abilene Performance Car Association
> > > Falcon Club of America
> > > =====================================
> > >
> > >
> > > > -----Original Message-----
> > > > From:
> > classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca
> > > >
> >
> [mailto:classic-mustangs-bounces at lists.twistedpair.ca]
> > On
> > > > Behalf Of Dennis Harrelson
> > > > Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2006 8:51 PM
> > > > To: Chris Kelly
> > > > Subject: [CM] rear end opinions sought
> > > >
> >
> === message truncated ===
>
>
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