I have a '67 Riv with a 455 bored .030 and cammed for high rpms with a 2800 stall stage two TH400. I'm trying to figure out what kind of rear end I should be looking for (I'm really new to this part). My friend that's helping me put it together has recommended a 3:73 or 4:11. I want a car that's really quick, but is comfortable for cruising in town and at highway speeds as well. Opinions? Recommendations?
The only rear available is the one in there now. And only gear set that is available is a 3.42. And that you'll have to find used. The only other choice would be to call Curry Enterprises and have them make you a 9" Ford rear to fit under there. Make sure your sitting down when they give you the price.
Yep, 3.42 should be perfect. Even if a lower ratio was available, you probably wouldn't be happy with it unless you want strictly a 1/4 mile car which it does not sound like is the case. 3.42s limited slips were stock on the GS cars. They were also optional on non-GS cars but not too common. Most cars had 3.07s with open differential . A little more common option was the limited slip 3.07s which surprisingly aren't that bad with a built motor and tranny.
If you going to use it on the highway you will want a 3.07. The difference between the two gear ratios in a quarter mile I bet is not one tenth of a second but the difference in the feel on the highway at 60 mph will be so much better with a 3.07. The 455, if you did not get overboard with your camshaft, will have plenty of low end torque with a 3.07 ratio.
