8 1/4 strength

Gilbert, you really could end up with $800/$1000 bucks building a solid 8.25 rear end. If there's any chance of finding a drum to drum 8.75 that's in good condition with a sure grip & 3.23's/3.55's I'd look there first.

Right or wrong, the first thing I look at is under the rear end of cars on display or for sale. To be honest, if I saw a 8.25 under a 68' Cuda BB/4spd, i'd think that cost's were cut on the build and I would wonder where else cost's were cut on the car?

You may plan on keeping it forever, and that would be very cool, but if you ever plan on letting it go somewhere down the road, I'd put my money into finding a 8.75 rearend.....Just my opinion.