What gears are in my rearend? How to know?

[wyoduster]

I know I have an 83/4 rearend But I have NO idea how to tell what gears are in there? I have never driven the car as I bought it with a bad engine.
So I Decided to restore and redue entire car,my way. So is there a way to know?? I'm ready to start reworking the back half so I'll be under there today. What should I be looking for and What should I tear apart to check out for wear or damage?

 

[rumblefish360]

Well, there could be a metal tag on one of the bolts stating the ratio, if not, since your doing the car up, pop off your wheela nd pull your axles and unbolt the center section for an oil change. (It's probably never been done)

On the ring gear, theres several numbers stamped into it. You'll notice the ratio is on the ring gear.

The gears themself are tuff parts and IF there actually worn out, I'd be surprised. But look for discolored steel as a sign of "It's time for new gears."