Ok...rethinking how to use $6k

Ok, those of you that read my first post found I was focused solely on whether to rebuild my 318 or go to a 360. After reading the feedback I've since rethought my strategy on how to deploy the $6k I have to use this year for my 68 Dart GT. After more thought I feel if I start out upgrading brakes and rear end--and doing wheels and tires to get the stance and look--I'll be much better positioned once I figure out the engine/transmission later. Right now I'm looking at a complete rear assembly(8.75, tru trac, 3.55 gears) that will get me to 5 x 4.5 bbp including rear disc brakes for about $3250. Then I'll use the rest on a front disc brake kit, new master cylinder, and wheels and tires. Right now I'm looking at 225/45/17 in front and 245/40/18 in back. I know they're expensive, but I like Coy wheels and have been looking at those. I'm a newb so any thoughts on this plan are greatly appreciated!

Hi!

you can save some money and get a Ford 8.8 from an Explorer....shorten the long side, get another short side shaft, rebuild the suregrip....you can even get them with discs (i use one in my Valiant). Even when you have the work done you should be able to save a lot of money you can spend elsewhere!

Michael

Right now I'm looking at a complete rear assembly(8.75, tru trac, 3.55 gears) that will get me to 5 x 4.5 bbp including rear disc brakes for about $3250.

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That seems excessive to me. If you shop wisely (and take your time), you should be able to accomplish that for much less.

I built my own 8 3/4 rear diff, with suregrip, 3.55's everything brand (I rebuilt the suregrip unit) new for a shade over 600 bucks. I could add disc brakes for another 400.

You could just send me some of it and I'll use it wisely:toothy1:

Gonna jump in here. I don't know what rear end you have in your car at this point, obviously not an 8 3/4. Going to 8 3/4 you will have to rework or have a driveshaft made. Reading this post, if i am correct, you're looking at spending 3200$ on an 8 3/4 with disc brakes? I'm sorry but that's way way far out of line. I had a Strange S-60 custom built for my Demon with a tru-trac carrier for a lot less than that. Now mind you I am using drum brakes and running a big block. It looks like you're after a cruiser with a little pep? My advice is don't rush, keep an eye out for a rear end assy. There's one listed here for 750$ with 323 sure grip. How ever its pick up only. My point being there are deals that pop up, watch local adds in your area. I just think you can find better deals and use the money other places. Also being new to this car familiarize your self with the quirks of your car. Research the dimensions you need for the differential (length of housing, spring perch width) so if you do find one you're able to make sure it's what you want. You're wanting four wheel disc brakes? I personally would go with a factory set up on the front and look after market on the rear. For the front you will need upper control arms (lg ball joint 73 up vehicle) spindles (73 up) I believe your lower control arms will work with the later ball joints (not 100% sure on the 1968). My point being I hate to see someone toss money that can be used effectively other places. In my opinion for 6k you can do rear and brakes and have a sizable chunk left for else where. I'm not putting you down but research and ask questions. There are a whole bunch of good people on here that can and will guide you. Don't know your situation and if your doing the work your self. I'm sure there are members close to your area that may even be willing to lend you a hand. I guess my point is I have seen people in my life that start a project and get discouraged due to money going into it, and give up.

I agree that sounds high for that rear end. I just sold one with 391 gears,sure grip,moser axles and willwood disc breaks. Had maybe 500 miles on it for 1500 bucks.

I was at local boneyard other day, asked bout the explorer 8.8. quoted $250 with both axles 3.73 or 4.1 ford sure grip. O K so that's pore *** Mo. and ya get discs with it. HUH?

Hookers and alcohol.

$3200= most of a turbo kit. Keep 318& current geartrain.Save for stronger rear. Nice docile cruiser, with bruiser attitude. Incinerate the hides whenever the mood strikes.
Turbo is the great equalizer for little LAs