[david6chevy]

If I replace my stock 63 Chevy II rear end with a stock s-10 truck rear end is that an upgrade? Is the s-10 stronger? faster?
Also, how can I tell an s-10 7.5 from a 8.5?

[ericnova72]

www.novaresource.org has info on telling them apart. IMO if you are going to the trouble to change the rear, a 7.5" is a bad choice, only a small percentage stronger than your original rear so why bother. The 8.5" is a vastly superior choice.

[junior stocker]

Use the FULL SIZE 55-64 3rd member to start with; the one that came in the early Nova's/Chevy II's was a lightweight unit; they were thinner castings, and had smaller bearings. Then, have Dutchman make up a set of axles. The real problem with these cars is the BRAKES! I did this with a 63 Chevy II, station wagon, street racer, and even kept the 4 bolt hubs to enhance the "sleeper" look. After selling the car, it met with an untimely end; the "friend" that bought the car, let the rear end go with the hulk hauler. I wanted to send him to the hulk hauler. 4.88:1 gears on a Positraction unit, cap supports, Dutchman Motorsports axles, and traction bars; I had a little money wrapped up in that rear end, not to mention the rest of the car. I kept my engine/trans when I sold it.

[SSedan64]

7.5" to 8.5" rear ID. >> http://dyeager535.topcities.com/diffid.html