8 3/4 or Dana 60

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1970Duster

1970Duster

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Ok got a question here you guys. My motor makes ~400 HP with an auto behind it. The question is should I run my 8 3/4 or try and get my hands on a Dana 60 (it would have 354 gears with a suregrip)? If I go Dana I'll have no need for the 8 3/4 so I'd sell the thing (all parts I have for it, 741 w/323, 489 w/323 (open but comes with clutch type sure grip), and 489 w/391 clutch type sure grip. Come with sbp axles). So what would this factory a body axle setup be worth?
 
I'm sure you'll get opinions that with 400hp there is no need for a Dana, but what happens when you decide to go even bigger later. If you go Dana now, you won't have to ask the question later. I would think if you threw the 741 case w/3.23 open gear in it and it's complete small bolt pattern A-body 8 3/4 from drum to drum, you should be able to get $500-$600 for it.

Don't believe the hype about the Dana being so much heavier and your car being slower. The most it will cost you is 1/10 sec.
 
Or do what I'm doing and get a Ford 9". Bought one out of a Late Versaille--a smallish Granada like thing---has factory disk brakes, and the spring pads are only 1/2" wider than stock A body Mopar.

So big rear, disk brakes, and big bolt pattern, all in one drop in package
 
You,ll be fine with the 8 3/4,unless you plan on running up over 550hp with a 4 speed launching at the track.JMO.
 
I'm running 8-3/4, 742 case, sure grip, aftermarket axles, 7290 yoke. 12.26 ET with a four speed and drag radials. Maybe with real slicks I would be in trouble, but so far, so good. 460HP 340 by the way.
 
Thanks for the pictures. There shouldnt be a difference in that picture setup between the dart and duster right?
 
well the only thing that should keep you from doing an 8.75 is cost... you can build a brand new strange 60 for about 1300 bucks...

the 8.75 has been used in 10 sec street cars... there are guys on this site that will vouch for that...

more than likely you will never need a dana unless you stroke the crap out of that SB or boost it... or go with a stick but you'll break the trans before the rear...
 
I have a shortened 8 3/4 with a 489 centre and 3.55 gears
Stock axels, just shortened and re-splined.
11.4@118 in a 3400lb car
496 cubes

No problems so far
 
Looks like I'm keeping the 8 3/4 for the quick change setup. Thanks for all the info guys!!!
 
805moparkid said:
well the only thing that should keep you from doing an 8.75 is cost... you can build a brand new strange 60 for about 1300 bucks...
Click to expand...

FYI, my custom width Strange 60 with no brakes was $2300. That did include an upgrade to Tru Trac, but it still would have been right around $2k plus shipping.

I sold all my A body 8 3/4 stuff and had it built. Not that I need it, but maybe someday I will. This way I know I'm bullet proof back there. Plus the WOW factor of seeing that cover peeking out is a bonus!!
 
You might not be able to use the stock gas tank with a Dana 60. A fuel cell in the trunk might be necessary.
 
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