Looking in my rear...

[chargd72]

 ...sick.  Anyway, I have an 8.25 rear with 2.76 grandma gears.  I want some more off the line.  I'm looking for a 3.23 or 3.55 sure grip third member.  Is it true that a 1996 or earlier dakota, durango or jeep third member will bolt right up to my 8.25?  I've read that these are all 27 spline.  And are all or only some equipped with sure grip?  **I'm keeping the 8.25 because I'm powered by a 318** 

Thanks for any help.

[Troy]

Then why do you need a Sure Grip?

Troy

[chargd72]

Then why do you need a Sure Grip?

Troy

It's a decently built 318, 26" diameter tires, 3.55 gears, I'm thinking it might be able to spin them a bit.  Even if not, a new pin and ring set would be just as expensive.  This way could keep my 2.76 third member and bolt on for what kind of driving I'm doing.  So it doesn't have to be a sure grip, just a preference if available.

[68neverlate]

Gotta love your number of posts Troy!   

[nvrbdn]

yea but now he cant answer or it will change

[68neverlate]

 

[Rolling_Thunder]

I believe the 8 1/4 units were either 31 or 27 splines depending on years...    you can upgrade to the newer style axles (thicker and 27 spline I believe) and run a new sure grip with whatever gears you want...

The 8 1/4 does not use a removable third member...    it does however use "C" clips...      you get to remove the rear cover and dick with it that way (like those chevy guys)

[chargd72]

The 8 1/4 does not use a removable third member...   

Really?  Didn't know that.  So I guess the most practical choice for my build is just to put in a higher open gear.  Thanks R_T.

[chargd72]

New thought...  Would it be worth saving a few bucks taking a used ring and pinion set with my desired gears from one of the 27 spine vehicles that I stated above?

[lisiecki1]

you can always hit the junk yard, the 8-3/4 in my 73 actually came out of a 74 coronet station wagon, exact same width/spring perch mounts/etc.

For what it would cost to put gears in the 8-1/4 that might put you ahead of the game.

[chargd72]

you can always hit the junk yard, the 8-3/4 in my 73 actually came out of a 74 coronet station wagon, exact same width/spring perch mounts/etc.

For what it would cost to put gears in the 8-1/4 that might put you ahead of the game.

There's that option too.  Did you have to do any rebuilding or was it in good shape?  I'm sure it would be minimal, but do you lose any RWHP going with a larger size?