Should I build the 8 1/4 or go for an 8 3/4

[43tutor]

I've been researching and trying to decide what rearend to build for my car. Here is what I have. 72 Plymouth SSP with an 8 1/4" rearend. I'm planning to build the original 400 into a stroker motor (451) but not too radical, maybe 400 HP (I'm guessing at this point). The car is an automatic and I plan to install an mild shift kit. I would like to run a 3.55 sure-grip but I'm trying to decide if I should build the 8 1/4 or switch over to the 8 3/4 rearend.

The car will not be raced. This is a pleasure car for cruise-ins and car shows only. Stock size tires. I do plan to burn the rear tires as needed to show-off on and have some fun.

I know the 8 3/4 is stronger but for what I plan to do with the car is it necessary?

 

[rev.ronnie]

I think that an 8 3/4 would take the "what-if" factor out of it.... The 8 1/4 has a pretty wimpy cross pin..

 

[monaco66coupe]

A C body 8 3/4 would be easy to aquire and build. You have an easy time changing ratios, and less labor. Maybe better safe than sorry.

 

[67 coronet]

the biggest thing to think of is,are ever gonna want to add more power later?hard to say,but with the 8 3/4 you wont have to worry about the rear.if you are sure you are never gonna go over the 400 hp mark you should be ok.buy the way,why stroke the 400 if you are only shooting for 400 hp?the 400 can make that pretty easy without spending the dough on a stroker kit.

 

[rumblefish360]

Though more expensive and a pain to do since you probably don't have a 8-3/4 at your house ready to go, it is the smarter and safer route to go with.
Build the 8-3/4. Go with some after market axles. You'll never worry or wonder after that.

 

[43tutor]

Thanks guys for the suggestions. I was leaning towards the 8 3/4 build and that helps. I will build a sure-grip, when we do burn-outs my wife has already told me she wants both back tires spinning and not just one! It always makes it easier when the little lady is on board with the project.

 

[tallhair]

Awesome comment about the wife and good decision tutor