Problems With an 8.25 - What would you do?

The story doesn't make sense to me..... My initial thoughts of having a mismatched set of gears will most likely start to show up when you mark the pattern. Unless it is the improper pinion for the housing, you should be able to get the correct pinion depth. Buying used rear end parts is a tricky deal unless you know the history.....

If you did the deal to flip it and make a few bucks then something is always worth more when it's complete and ready to bolt in for use. But you can also go backwards on the investment real quick unless you have the ability to do the work and even then you can lose time or as I say going tired and hungry to make a few bucks.....

JW