SALON REAR DIFF

[86Cutlass383SR]

From what I've been told, the driveshaft from a car with an 8.5 rearend is 1" shorter than a 7.5" rearend vechicle. That is, if both cars use the same transmission of course. A Salon with a 200-4R (and 7.5") vs a 442 (with 8.5) and the same 200-4R transmission, the 442 d'shaft will be 1" shorter.

 

[olds307 and 403]

If you have a 500 Caddy, the thicker 8.5" driveshaft is a good idea. The mounts could make up some of the difference.

 

[86Olds442]

From what I've been told, the driveshaft from a car with an 8.5 rearend is 1" shorter than a 7.5" rearend vechicle. That is, if both cars use the same transmission of course. A Salon with a 200-4R (and 7.5") vs a 442 (with 8.5) and the same 200-4R transmission, the 442 d'shaft will be 1" shorter.

I can confirm this. My parts car was an 85 Salon with a 307 and a 200-4r with a 7.5" rear, and my 86 442 is a 307 and a 200-4r. The driveshaft on the salon was about 1" too long for the 442 with the 8.5" rear. I never did try to put the Salon driveshaft on the 442 to see if it *could* fit though.

 

[crucial118]

Not planning on racing the car or anything, just want a little better reaction when I hit the gas. So, can I get away with just changing the gears, or do I need to change the axles and diff unit also? Ring and pinion packages go on Summit for around $200. Used posi diffs sell for around $800+. I'll do the work myself. Only putting a SBC TPI 350 in the car, no nitrous, turbo, etc. Drive the car everyday to work, just want something fun and reliable. 😀