Looks like we lost a lot of posts here, so instead of searching I have to ask- WHAT REAR END IS IN MY 65 SPECIAL WAGON? Seems like a dumb ? I bought a rear end from a later car -71 or something-I guess I should take it apart to count splines and so forth-I ass umed that it was a direct bolt in, but its 1.5" wider and it won't work with the wheel/tire combination I have. Will that one's gears/posi work with current housing and axles or do I have to find a '65 specific posi? Gear ratios are the same, 3.23:1 Help!
Ted your 65 special wagon should have an 8.2 with bolt in axles and possibly the big bearings. gear ratio should be 3.23 if it's the original rear end. the posi carrier you will need to use is from a 64-67 bop 8.2 or you can buy a new eaton or auburn posi. the later one you have will not interchange with the 65 assy
Looks like the eaton carrier needs 3.36 gears or up to work- 3.55:1 looks like the lowest ratio available. I think I could live with 3.36. Unobtanium again? It seems I ALWAYS want something different! Crikey.
Auburn make a Pro-series carrier for the mid ratio (2.93-3.08-3.23) "BOP" 8.2. These can be bought for around $380. Ck Tom's Differential in CA. When preparing to go through your 8.2 wagon rear, I'd def ck the wheel bearings. :3gears: Roger