Best place to get a complete rear end?

[LukeZ]

I've purchased two 8.5 rear axle assemblies in the past 10 years or so, for less than $500, but neither of them was ready to be bolted in, and they both needed some reconditioning. They're not easy to find in almost any condition and the price varies accordingly.
If your El Camino is pretty much stock right now, then something like a 3.73 posi rear axle from an '85-'88 Monte SS would be a good choice for now. If you go to a more powerful engine later on, you could sell the Monte axle to recoup some of your investment, and switch to something stronger at that time.

Hmm... Good idea, thanks

 

[LukeZ]

Thanks for your suggestions everyone. I might just stay with the 7.5 rear size for now and just get lower gears and maybe posi if I can.

 

[LukeZ]

Actually, one quick question...

Could I just keep the rear assembly I have now and just get new gears and a carrier (preferably posi)? I guess a transmission shop could swap all that for me?

 

[ssn696]

Keep an eye peeled for an S10 with the 7.5/7.625 axle. They usually came with 3.42 or 3.73 gears. If you can find one with a limited slip, you can swap that into your G-body axle.

 

[Westbank of NOLA]

Keep an eye peeled for an S10 with the 7.5/7.625 axle. They usually came with 3.42 or 3.73 gears. If you can find one with a limited slip, you can swap that into your G-body axle.

I need some more info on this.

 

[Aaron L. Thomas]

I had this same issue when I wanted to switch to posi. I took it to the DTS here in Michigan and they told me to wait until I redo my engine to worry about a rear end. They said that would save me money because your rear end should be based off your engine and how you want your car to perform. I respect them for that info and they're reasonable and knowledgeable. They ship too so check out their website and see what you can see.
http://www.drivetrainspecialists.com/

 

[Garrett1982]

http://www.hotrod.com/how-to/paint-body/1412-how-to-swap-ford-rear-into-a-gm-g-body/

 

[lilbowtie]

Ditto Clean & Garrett - A 7.5 will handle it w/ no poblems

 

[wonderboy24]

Where did you find an 8.5 rear for $600? I couldn't find squat when I searched for an 8.5. It's like they don't even make them after market

i have been looking my self for a coupe years. checked ebay,craigslist,i am in groups for g-bodys on facebook finally found a guy a hour away who had one. i had build for my ride. there was a guy a couple days ago on facebook who had one for sale. i am in several g-body groups on facebook cant remember witch one it was.

 

[lilbowtie]

Didn't notice there was a page 2 - I would try to stay away from a gov lock. Ever consider an 8.8??