High Strength IRS for an '80. Is there such a thing?

[vetski179]

Please forgive me if this topic has been discussed here before. I’m new to the board, having recently acquired a rough but running ’80 for $1500. This is the 4th Vette I’ve owned, with two 1974’s and an ’81 preceding it. I have big plans for the ’80, using the ’74 LS4 I owned until 1989 as a starting point. I think 600 ft lbs of torque is gonna make mincemeat of my 1980’s rear end. Over the years, has anyone come up with a stronger solution? Like maybe a 12 bolt center section, a Ford 9 inch center section, Dana, or a conversion to a solid axle? Thank you in advance for your input. If you’d like to look at my ’80, as well as the other Vette’s mentioned here, here’s a link

 

[sixty9vette]

The '80 & '81 automatics were the only models that used small u-joints, making them a weak spot (but plenty strong for the original 190hp). I upgraded an '81 with the larger Spicer solid u-joints, which also meant replacing the side yokes and flanges to accept the larger Spicers. With 600 ft.lbs. I don't know that I'd trust that Dana 44. I've seen solid axles (tubbed) on C3's, but not too keen on that as an option unless you're mostly interested in drag racing.

 

[Bob_K]

I made a post the other day...caleed putting more power to the pavement or something like that. It had a link to a site that has a drag rear end for C3's. Also, I think Guildstrand has a 5 link IRS if you want to get crazy.

 

[70 LS1]

Tom's Differentials builds bullet proof IRS for the vettes. I have heard nothing but great things about them. It is quite pricey, but there is no better.

http://tomsdifferentials.com/tomp.htm

 

[vetski179]

Thanks for the tips!

Bob K, I found your previous post, and took a look at the DragVette site. Might be just the thing I was after. Thanks to all for your responses.

 

[4 webers]

There are quite few options available to help you beef up your rear end . You can use stub axles from an 82 for instance , they are a bit stronger that the originals . Do a bit of research , you may find you can save a bit of cash , and still have a reliable driveline .


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