There's a rear for sale in my area that I'm wondering if I should get. First of all, I don't know much about this subject and second I don't have the funds to completely build a desired rear end for my car, with that said.... I have a 68 with original 2.56 8.2 in it. I've heard that an 8.5 is a better choice, more available parts, future upgrades, posi, gears etc.?? His ad states its a 10 bolt out of a driving 72 skylark only 2.56 gears also. I'm assuming if its year correct for the car its an 8.5? Its drum to drum Asking $150 Even though its only 2.56 like mine would this be a better choice for me at that price? I eventually would like to have something more in the 3.08 or a little more. Advice from you guys that know?? Thanks Matt
If it is year correct, it has to be an 8.5. I put an 8.5 out of a 72 in my car. The price sounds great as long as there are no issues. You can upgrade the internals later as funds permit. UticaGeoff
I've replied to his ad with some questions, no reply yet but all his ad said was it was driven prior to removal and both rear as well as brakes work. What if any changes did you need to do to swap?
If it is the original rear, it is an 8.5, but I wouldn't take the sellers word for it. Take a look at the rear. An 8.5 will have the squared off lugs at the bottom of the pumpkin, and the rear u-joint will be retained by brackets and cap screws, NOT U-bolts. The 71-72 Buick 8.5 will also be bolt in axle. http://jdrace.com/diff_id/10b85.htm http://www.buickperformanceclub.com/85rear.htm 150.00 is a good price. You can buy a brand new posi carrier and gears and have the rear you always wanted.
I had to change the driveshaft - different length. The boardmember who sold the rearend to me gave me the driveshaft as part of the deal. My aftermarket rear stabilizer bar fit a little snug against the bottom of the pumpkin so I put a piece if heater hose around it. With you getting the same ratio rear, your speedo should probably read the same. UticaGeoff
You have to shorten the driveshaft 1/2-3/4". The swap is easier than you think. If you unbolt and remove the axles on both rears, you can wire up the backing plates and brakes, and just slip the new rear in, and bolt up your existing brakes. Then just bolt the axles back in and your in business. No need to deal with brake lines, emergency brake cables etc.
thanks! This definitely sounds like a plan then. I'll make sure to check for the little nubs at the bottom and bolt in axles. I'm in process of emailing him now...
That is exactly what I did when I swapped my 8.5 into the 70. It makes things much easier and cleaner for sure.
Nope, very common rear ratio for a Skylark. My 72 Skylark custom was a Canadian built car with a 12 bolt 2.56. Had a 350-2.
Jim has a posi kit now for your 2 series 8.2 carrier. Not sure what the advantage of spending money on another 2.56 is ? DL
My skylark (originally 2bb 350) also came factory with 2.56s. As far as it being an advantage, I know its the same ratio, but I was going off of reading the board here and always thought the 8.5 was an advantage itself over the 8.2 because of parts being more readily available, and possibly cheaper?? I figured at that price, if it helps me in the long run im all for it. Again, I'm not very knowledgeable on this subject and that's why I'm here askin
This is true, But I would ask Jim first. And if he can install 2.73 or 2.93 posi in your housing if that's what your looking to do. IF Jim builds it you won't have to worry about future parts as it won't come apart. I'd put the $ into my unit instead of an unknown part, that may also need rebuilt? Just another option. DL
I think he wants to change gears, and the 8.5 definitely has a wider selection of parts available. Certainly cheaper also. For 150.00, the stronger rear is the way I'd go. Wait, that is the way I went, but I only paid 50.00:laugh: Last I heard, Jim was waiting on another run of 8.2 gears.
Both good points, and yes as funds permit I would like to eventually get out of the granny gears and wake up the car a little. Posi as well! $50!? Oh thanks..way to rub it in Larry!
I highly recommend contacting Jim (monzaz) should you need anything. He is a great guy to deal with. Im picking up my new rear from him tomorrow (pretty much a carbon copy of your rear Larry) and he has been stellar every step of the way. And was previously mentioned, his reputation has been proven over and over. He builds solid pieces, you wont have a problem.
Thanks I will contact him. Ive read a lot of stuff he's posted up here on the forum. Definitely the man to talk too!
