8-1/4 aka 8.25 swap for 67 Dart

[CultClassik]

A while back I picked up an 8.25 axle with posi and 4.56 gears, complete drum to drum.

I'm still trying to decide if I really want to run this thing. I've heard so many people say 8-3/4 is the only way to go, but they're so hard to find for an A body. This thing will never run tons of power or anything more than street tires most likely, I'm pretty sure it will be ok since it was used without issue in a fairly serious Duster drag car before I got it.

Anyway, if I do use this I want to make sure I have everything lined up and ready to go. I'd like to do the inboard spring kit at the same time. So, please add to my list if I'm missing anything:

BBP wheels

U-bolts (where to order?) the holes on the 7-1/4 shock plates?

Driveshaft (are U-joints different between 7-1/4 and 8-1/4?)

Assuming chassis to axle brake hose is the same?

Offset shackle/hangers (Mopar or Dr Diff?)

Gears...I'm going with 3.55 most likely. Any helpful links on swapping gears in this axle? I may attempt to do this myself if it's not too bad.

 

[daliant]

I think with street tires you'll be fine as long as you don't have wheel hop issues.


U bolts: find a place local that does truck leaf springs and 4x4 stuff or summit, jegs, etc..
Shock plates: different from 7 1/4 to 8 1/4, the bolt holes wont line up with the 3" U bolts
Drive shaft: needs to be shortened 1 1/2"
U joint: same from 7 1/4 to 8 1/4
Brake hose: should be the same

 

[RedFish]

I might be wrong but I think the brake hoses are different. The 8.25 hose has the Tee block made on it.
3 inch U bolts can be found on ebay for around 35.00.

 

[CultClassik]

Thanks guys. I'm looking at a good deal on a set on used gears...what's everyone's opinion? They look good but I'm wondering it its worth saving some dough over just getting new ones?

 

[cuda65vpt]

If you don't mind my adding to your questions....

Will the emergency brake cables (which are about 3-4" longer) work or do we need to change them out for the cars originals? I am working with a 66 Barracuda and a 73 duster rear.

BTW: the brake hoses are different but the newer work. It is just a different junction block bolted to the rear.

 

[CultClassik]

I haven't even looked at the ebrake stuff. I've got the cables from the 8-1/4 also, but not sure what to do there. Thanks for the brake hose info!

 

[loganscuda]

I went from 7 1/4 to 81/4 on my barracuda 67. 81/4 came out of 74 dart and it had two seperate e brake cables I only hooked up one. I have never had to use an E brake for anything. Hope i never have to.