Trying to figure out a rear end and suspension.

[85_455_cutty]

I have an 85 cutlass that ive been working on for a while now and its 2 days away from being driveable. Its got a 455 Thats gonna have around 450-500hp. Im running a turbo 400 transmission with a 3000 stall. Im wanting to get one of those bolt in 9" housings cause right now i just have a stock 7.5 and I dont know how long it will last. Anybody used that rear end before? I as trying to find a good cheap housing and go from there. I was thinking about using those lakewood lift bars cause of my stall. I need to know what springs to use so it sits up a higher in the back so I can put some meaty tires on the back without rubbing. Ive also heard there is a way to fit a ten inch tire in the back without any problems with the right back spacing if anybody knows what that is? And last what suspension should I use on the front with it having a big block in it? I want it to sit a lil lower but still be strong enough to hold when i take off hard? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Ill have pics up soon to those who have been reading my threads and helpin me out.

 

[monte olrac]

the "7.5 rear end" to be honest some will say they're strong, some will say they're fragile...I've seen them both get beaten up and keep on moving and some were a gernade.

with that said lets look at the situation..how will you drive it, whats in the current set up. if you replace all the enternals go with good axles 28 spline and torzen or power trax diff you'll be alright with some street tires, if you go slicks i'll give it 10 passes max if you hook up and 15 is you spin them

 

[Blake442]

For the rear, your 7.5 will be fine on the street, since there's no chance of it ever getting enough traction to break anything. The track may be another story...

As far as front springs go, was your car an original V8 car?

If so, the stock springs will hold it up just fine, since the 455 is only 60 lbs heavier than the 307.

I have the stock F41 springs under my car, and it's fine.
Invest in some good shocks.