Help! C3 (1973) replace rear end cover

[JW73]

Rear end cover needs to be replaced. Base of cover bolt holes that support spring, one is stripped. There is a cross member that is cast with the rear end cover itself. Any insights on replacing the cover from someone that has done it? Any help will be appreciated.

Thanks,
JW

 

[GTR1999]

Your 73 has an iron cover and they will break from incorrect spring installation, using longer bolts to mount the spring, or hitting a good pot hole with enough force.
The 80-82 covers are aluminum and the Batwing supports cast in but they will not locate where yours does plus you'll have to weld brackets in to mount it to the frame.
You need to buy a good used iron cover or better yet a new Muskegon HD cover.

 

[JW73]

Rear end cover needs to be replaced. Base of cover bolt holes that support spring, one is stripped. There is a cross member that is cast with the rear end cover itself. Any insights on replacing the cover from someone that has done it? Any help will be appreciated.

Thanks,
JW

I already have a new Muskegon HD cover. I am mostly concerned with the cross member that is cast with the rear end cover itself, and how to remove.

Thanks, JW

 

[JohnZ]

I already have a new Muskegon HD cover. I am mostly concerned with the cross member that is cast with the rear end cover itself, and how to remove.

Thanks, JW

Are you saying that your '73 has a 1980 aluminum diff and combination aluminum rear cover and "batwing" crossmember? :confused