For my next mod im thinking about buying 3.73 rears gears for my 85 TA, ive been looking around and seeing different # of bolts like 10 or 12, and sizes like 8.5" and 8.75"....what would i need to reaplce mine, and how difficult is it on a scale 1-10?
Thanks

 

First off with your knowlege of rear axle asseblies per your Post, don't even think about it. My opinion.

Your 85 if stock came with a 10 or 9 bolt rear, also it could be a two or three series carrier. This is important info if changings ratios. And posting questions is not going to help the mind readers on this Board. You will have to get under the car and look and that means pulling the cover. If you can't do that forget the DIY idea.

 

yeah...ill probably end up taking it to a shop...how much do the gears themselves take? And when i do bring it to a shop how long do you think it would take to instal them? Just trying to get an idea h ow much it'll cost parts and labor....
thanks

 

Now this is a guess......With parts & labor $700/800. Remember this is a guess and it could be higher or lower depending where you live and the parts required. Time wiseone or two days max. My opinion is to stay with the stock rear for one reason: If it isn't broke why mess with it.

 

Most rebuilds will fall below a 1000 including gears. I've done some as cheap as 500, some up towards 1500. blackz87 hit it pretty good at 7-800. On a scale of 1-10 it's a 11 if you don't know how to properly shim, adjust, measure and setup a gear set. Multiple disassemlys can be required if the pinion play is to tight or loose.

What is your rear gear ratio now? Check the build sheet, option tag and vin. Call a dealer and see if they can give you the gear ratio if you can't find it. Most times the last 8 of the vin is all that's needed.
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Mainly because ive been reading up on here that it makes it like a whole new car, the 305 just doesnt have enough "nut" to it, i didnt realize it was going to cost 7-800...Ill just stick with intake, and other bolt ons for now, and save for a 350 build....
thanks