Dana Differential Carrier

[matchframe]

Is there any advantage to replacing the differential support with a newer style (Aluminum brace) that came with the later sharks? I believe they are called the "Dana Differential Carrier" A friend of mine has offered me a complete rear suspension and differential w/ 3.55 ratio out of an '82 Vette. Thanks!

Bill

 

[Blue82]

I can't really answer your question but when I changed the gears on my 82, all the parts for it were listed as 80 - 82. I would be willing to bet that there is more difference between the two than the gears coming off the carrier within the differential vs being contained within the carrier w/a back plate.

I would call a Corvette repair shop and tell them what you want to buy. Ask them if it is a direct fit and how much they would charge to do the swap....not that you plan to have them do it.

 

[mapman]

Frame is different on 1980-82. The differential crossmember bolts to "tabs" on the underside of the frame rails. Bolt runs horizontal through the "tabs". The rear spring is different (I believe) from your 1978. Spare tire carrrier will be different as well.

I am not sure if the half shafts will work without modification either, as the trailing arm side yokes from 1963-79 are different than from 1980-82.

Seems like a lot of work to convert. Significantly lighter though.

 

[1BAD80]

The rearend in the 80-82 is a Dana 44 with 3.07 gears.
The posi unit cannot take to much horse power, I was shearing the clutch keeper in half with another 75 HP added. I ended up with a new Eaton unit that is gear driven. No problem with it yet, and running 650 plus hp.