Early A Body Rear Swap

[ConValiant64]

Thinking about swapping out the stock 7 1/4 rear in my 1964 Valiant for a Dana 60 out of a 70s E body. I Googled the flange to flange difference, and it came to around 6 inches wider. In my mind, I'm thinking-OK, that amounts to 3 inches on either side, so just buy wheels with the proper offset and all should be good. Google also informed me about the driveshaft to rear centerline differences of around 2 inches, but I have no clue what that is referring to.

Long question short-Am I oversimplifying this swap? Will it require narrowing the rear or some other labor-intensive detail/s I might be overlooking? Thanks.

 

[halifaxhops]

I would think that it would have to be narrowed why the dana? Racing it?

 

[ConValiant64]

I would think that it would have to be narrowed why the dana? Racing it?

If it fits, the better question might be 'why not'? Tired of having an eggshell rear that could blow under regular use or duress. Having two additional inches (7 1/4 to 9 1/4'') of protection is simply great piece of mind.

 

[halifaxhops]

I run a 8 1/4 with a 500 HP 440, stands up well and easy to find a track lock unit for also.

 

[halifaxhops]

I seriously think the 8 1/4 is a great rear if set up properly, a lot of members are running them and not many issues at all, and way less money to set up.

 

[halifaxhops]

we beat the hell out of the pros and cons of it in this thread if interested.
The 8 1/4 thread

 

[ConValiant64]

I seriously think the 8 1/4 is a great rear if set up properly, a lot of members are running them and not many issues at all, and way less money to set up.

The problem for me is finding a bolt-in in a decent price range in the gear ratio I prefer coupled with sure grip.

 

[toolmanmike]

And a original E body Dana is worth some serious coin. You could buy a truck load of 8 1/4 rears just by cashing in.

 

[ConValiant64]

And a original E body Dana is worth some serious coin. You could buy a truck load of 8 1/4 rears just by cashing in.

Good to know. Thanks.

 

[subcom]

I agree. That EBody Dana must be worth a fortune. Sell it to those Graveyard Carz guys and buy or build an 8 3/4, 8 1/4 even a Ford 9" or Ford Explorer 8.8"...I've done three swaps in my Early A and wheel fitment is tight on these vehicles. Having a proper width rear end helps a lot.

 

[halifaxhops]

Mopar a body 8 1/4 sure grip rear
That's a good deal.

 

[halifaxhops]

this is a steal on Long Island.
Mopar 81/4 rear and dana 60