7 1/4 to 8 1/4 swap

[Badvert65]

Does anyone know if swapping in an 8 1/4 rear (replacing the 7 1/4) will cause driveshaft problems-as far as length is concerned?
This is in a 71 Scamp.

 

[doogievlg]

You will need to have the drive shaft shortened. Not a huge deal and doesnt cost a ton.

 

[cop car wagon]

And the bigger shock plates with u bolts.
That only problem is more money.

 

[Dana67Dart]

If your shaft is the insulated 2 piece design like in 67 best to just replace it

And different flex hose from the body to the rear axle housing.

And U-joints MIGHT be different, you most likely have 7260 (small) U-joints on the drive shaft and I don't know what you have on your 8 1/4

 

[Jim Kueneman]

You need shock plates, U-bolts and a shorter drive shaft. I believe it was the same as having an 8.75 in it. The Valiant has a 8.25"

 

[timk225]

All else being equal, the 8-1/4" requires a driveshaft 1.60" shorter than a 7-1/4". I found a list here recently showing all the differences.