hello, Found a nice fresh 8.2 BOP 3.23 posi rear for my 65 skylark gs w/sp 300 auto. I currently have a 8.5 open GM installed by the previous owner. I understand when converted for the 8.5 the driveshaft was shortened. Does the 1965 Skylark Gran Sport have a different driveshaft than the 1965 Skylark/Special? Do I need to find a "GS" driveshaft? What are my options? What should a driveshaft cost me? Also, is there anything I need to know about the swap back to an 8.2? Thanks in advance. Steve
special tool? hello, I also need to know if there are any special techniques to installing axel bearings in my bop 8.2? Press fit? special tools to take out the old bearings? special tools to install? My first time. thanks, steve
you might need a longer driveshaft as the 8.5 has a longer pinoin to change your 8.2 bearings you should have a slide hammer to get axles out of housing. the have the bearings pressed on. gs shaft shouldnt be any different you might be able to get a longer yoke to make up difference .i seen that in carcraft that a truck 700r4 front yoke was longer and should fit 300-350 transmissions but i dont know part numbers on that.
Definitely will need a longer driveshaft. A stocker from same era Skylark with the Buick 8.2 & the 2 speed auto will be the same length. Know the correct length, I might have one in our barrels of driveshafts. Going back to the 8.2, def pull the 8.2's axles, & ck to see if the sealed axle bearings have been recently replaced. If they're the original Hyatts (green sides), definitely replace them. Sealed axle bearings are a HUGE step backwards compared to the 8.5's tapered axle bearings. Don't be surprised if one or both of the sealed axle bearing axles are chewed under the axle bearings & the axles need replacing. See it first hand on a near weekly basis. :3gears: Roger
Hello. If ya' got/get a good deal on the 3.23 posi, you might be able to sell it for enough to fund a posi install on the 8.5. I had a 3.42, 1968, 8.2 posi, it went for $500. Somone who wants originality might need that rear.
yeah me I agree-I know the advantages of the 8.5 but except for the rear end my sky gs is matching, now it won't technically be the original rear but it is the right code. Besides only really street use anyway. I don't think I'll find another correct one thats not broke. By the way does anyone know what color would be factory correct for me to paint the 8.2? I have seen fleckes of the same green that is on the motor under the sealcoat on a few rear ends. Thanks Steve
Driveshaft I have 2 of those driveshafts here that im not using. I would take $75 (ea)plus the shipping or you could pick it up. I live in Iowa City, Iowa. If you want to call my cell its 319-594-5392. Thanks, Tom
