[Trans Am Tony]

I am thinking about buying this rear end kit from Moser for 985.00. It is complete minus the center section. It is a direct bolt in for any 3rd gen. F car. The problem is, the center sections listed are like 1300 bones. I have a 4,400 budget, and really don't want to spend 2500 on a rear end alone. I am planning on a head, cam, and header swap on my 350 sbc to the tune of over 400 horses and 450 torque, which would kill that 7.5 if I build for traction.

My question is, could I go down to my local boneyard and pull a 9" center section from a F series or whatever else has a 9" Ford, bolt on a nice set of gears, and go?

[68NovaSS]

Absolutely, I'd look for a nodular piece. A Currie 9+ empty carrier isn't that expensive and substantially stonger than the FoMoCo drop outs.

[327NUT]

As "68" said ..... theres lots of hot rods running stock to mild 9" rears. No matter what 9" housing you get it will probably have to be narrowed and have the axles cut and re-splined but that isn' too much money. Look on ebay for your 3rd member.

I bought a new rebuilt 9" posi 31 spline 4 pinion 3.50 gear unit...shipped to my door for $475...works perfect. With your power level I really don't think you would need a nodular case but if you can find one for not too much more then it can't hurt. There are several companys selling them type in "9 inch Ford" or something like that and you'll see all kinds of 3rd members. Stick with one of these outfits and don't buy used (obvious reason), make sure to look at their feedback. Two I can think of is "VS" and "JT's".

[Trans Am Tony]

Thanks guys, I really appreciate the input!

Now that my T/A is on the disabled list (AGAIN!!!.. ), I want to fix all the weak links in the car. The 7.5 rear is gonna be a sore spot at some point, but now the clutch is out (will not disengage). Other weak links to be fixed are the torque arm (think I'm gonna box it), wiring in the engine compartment, and front end alignment including castor/camber. Also has a bad shifter, but I'm gonna go with either a Hurst Indy or Comp + 4 speed.

I plan on reworking the engine, driveline, interior, and a little exterior this fall/winter. It is a sweet ride, only rust is in the drivers door (treated underside of car with POR 15). Hood is dented and all messed up, and it is hard to find the ducted hood scoop hoods in good condition. Needs a headliner and console inside, but overall it is smooth as heck. Just over 59,000 miles on it........

I will post pics of the car and our story on the lounge. Again, thanks for all of your input.