Need some help. I have a 67 Pontiac Lemans, 326 V8 with a Muncie M-20 4 speed. Still working on the frame off restoration but would like to replace the 8.2" 10 bolt rear end. This rear has 2.56 ring/pinion, not acceptable so instead of dealing with these gears I am looking for the 8.5" 10 bolt.
I understand they made this 10 bolt from '68 through I believe '88. What models would fit under my Lemans without too much fab work? I found a '72 Pontiac Ventura that I think may work. Any one know for sure? Mine is 54 1/2" backing plate to backing plate. Not worried about the ring gear, If what I find has a 3.08, 3.23 or 3.36 great, otherwise I am thinking the 3.23 would be the best application for this setup for street use.
According to www.novaresource.org/axle.htm , the Ventura rear should be ~53-1/4" between the backing plates. Also between the backing plates, you'll find leaf spring mounts, and no place to mount your trailing arms.
I don't think there's any 8.5" unit that will just bolt into your car.
Any 64-67 GM A-body axle is a bolt-in. There were some 12 bolts used in Chevelles in 67 (and possibly other years). The 68-72 A-body axles also bolt in but are about an inch wider. Could be a clearance issue.
Avoid the "12 bolt" Olds axles. Most vendors advertise and price these as if they were Chevy 12 bolt axles. They're not. They only use an 8.5" diameter ring gear with 10 bolts. Parts are difficult to find.
Unfortunately, you won't find a cheap swap in any case. A-body axles (and parts in general) have exploded in price. It's almost cheaper to get a custom-built 9" housing for your A-body for what a good 12 bolt posi will cost.
I have a 12 bolt rear end will be glad to do some swapping with you for a set of good pontiac heads if your interested send me an e-mail, This rear end needs work.
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