Just wondering what kind of horsepower a stock 8" rear end can handle (3.0 gear and 5 lug) without getting into a heavy duty torque discussion. I'd rather keep it within it's limits to avoid a rear end overhaul. Let's assume it's the factory engine setup on a "swappable" late 80's-early 90's 302 or 302HO
a stock 8" rear end....will blow the "tire" before it hurts the rear end......JMO... ...:Handshake...
yes, there has been many threads on this topic... and many wont "argue" as opposed to just putting their .02 cents in as to how much it will hold. But I agree with frank on this one... my 34 year old mavericks 8" rear end stood up to multiple launches at the track, driven daily, and had a few bolt ons with the 302. All while leaking gear oil... and psst, I never checked or refilled it... lol.
should be fine. it should take that power (the referenced motors have 225 hp stock) on slicks. if your on street tires you wont hurt it ever as long as you have oil in it.
I'll let you know when I break mine. 4:11 gears, mini spool (shhh! don't tell!) and not only lots of launches on slicks, but lost of around town driving which I tend to think is harder on a locked rear end. Been in there about six years now and for my buddies who swore up and down the world would end if I didn't put a nine inch in the car, I'm sure it'll break any minute now...
So Ray, what's the deal? Gonna do any runs in the courier this year? Also, do you still have the radial gumballs? I finally got some 15" wheels (partly because I needed 'em to clear the new Wilwoods). PS.: I like your sig. Looks familiar.
do you guys think the 8" will hold up to my new 351w? everyone at school is telling me its going to be the first thing to go.
Depends on how you're going to use it. If you're going to race it, i"d opt for the 9". Around town and cruising it should be fine. Also a stick is harder on the rear than an automatic. Some have used 8" for years with no problems. They are good for 350 HP+.
Mine didn't, Blew the rear caps off the chunk, Broke them in half. A 8 Inch will take a lot of abuse, But i can promise if you start pulling 1.6 or better 60 ft times, it wont last long. If you never run stickies i will agree you probably cant hurt them
