Finally installing the 8 3/4 in Bluefish
After collecting parts for what seems like years, the 7 1/4 is finally coming out.
Spent the summer putting miles on the new 340 and working out the bugs. Decided to replace the 7 1/4 over the winter before it scattered...not really having any issues other than it wants to spin the right tire easily, and I've heard too many horror stories spider gears coming apart.
After a lot of research and advice, I purchased new leaf springs and hardware from Springs and Things. With a lot of spray lube and a torch, it only took about 3 hours to get it all apart.
With all new parts, it only took 2 1/2 hours to get the springs and rear end back in.
The pumpkin came with a 3:23 open dif, but I also have a 2:76 chunk. Going to drive a while with the 3:23 to see how bad it is on the highway before deciding which gear to go with, then I'll put a sure-grip in. My concern is the highway RPM;s since the rear tires aren't real tall.
Going to pick up the driveshaft tomorrow from the shop, and install it Sunday. Still waiting on the brake hardware from Rockauto.
My only regret is not getting the 1" or maybe 2" over springs, as the rear isn't quite as high as I would have liked.
After collecting parts for what seems like years, the 7 1/4 is finally coming out.
Spent the summer putting miles on the new 340 and working out the bugs. Decided to replace the 7 1/4 over the winter before it scattered...not really having any issues other than it wants to spin the right tire easily, and I've heard too many horror stories spider gears coming apart.
After a lot of research and advice, I purchased new leaf springs and hardware from Springs and Things. With a lot of spray lube and a torch, it only took about 3 hours to get it all apart.
With all new parts, it only took 2 1/2 hours to get the springs and rear end back in.
The pumpkin came with a 3:23 open dif, but I also have a 2:76 chunk. Going to drive a while with the 3:23 to see how bad it is on the highway before deciding which gear to go with, then I'll put a sure-grip in. My concern is the highway RPM;s since the rear tires aren't real tall.
Going to pick up the driveshaft tomorrow from the shop, and install it Sunday. Still waiting on the brake hardware from Rockauto.
My only regret is not getting the 1" or maybe 2" over springs, as the rear isn't quite as high as I would have liked.
