8.5 10 bolt VS. 7.625 10 bolt?

[white00s10]

I know the 7.625 will be decently strong IF you build it a bit and dont run slicks, but how much stronger is the 8.5?

Reason why im iasking is becuase i have the option of buying a complete drivetrain out of a 1995 Impala SS for cheap with only 40 k on it (impala is rusted to hell in true NY fashion)

[droopy89]

IMO, go with the 8.5

[04silveradomykk]

IMO, go with the 8.5

I second on the 8.5"

[Hammer Head]

First, the 8.5 in the Impala is going to be a coil spring set up.. our S trucks use leaf spring in the rear. For the amount of time spent cutting & welding perches for the springs to work properly I'd just build the 7.5/7.625 & throw a TA performance cover on it. It will handle the same amount of power then. Second, who says you can't run slicks w/ a 7.625 rear? Guys have been doin' it in G bodies for a long time & w/ no more problems than the bigger rears.

[j894]

I hear the 8.5 rear ends in those things are 28 spline? rather than 30

[Mikz86TA]

Id also opt for the 8.5 but not worth the hassle to work the Impy rear into the S. I have a 355 in a Trans Am witht he 7.625 10-bolt. I rebuilt it back when I still had the 305 in it and put a Auburn LS and 3.42s. It hasnt parted ways yet but is on borrowed time. It slings oil from the pinion seal, have a vibration that I am sure is coming from it and it has its own 'music station' emitting from it. F***in dogs bark at the high pitch whine when I drive by. Find yourself a S 8.5 rear IMO

[Hammer Head]

If you're planning on making anything more than 400-450 horse then, sure, get the 8.5. But if not, or you're keeping it between 375-450, throw the TA performance cover on it.. also known as a rear girdle. I picked one up from summit, was a trick flow brand, for about $135.