What kind of differential should I get??

[Vettefan87]

My one friend is telling me I need to get a 12 bolt differential for my car if I intend to build it up in the future. How many bolt differential is the D36, and the D44? He said the 12 bolts are virtually indestructable. What is the fail point on the D44's? I know the D36's wont hold up to much, and the gear selection in those arent very good.

 

[Ken]

Your rear end and a GM 12-bolt are two completely different animals; the 12-bolt is a solid axle whereas your rear suspension is independently controlled. Conversion isn't easy, but then, what is?

The GM 12-bolt as well as the Ford 9-inch rear ends are what hard-core drag racers would use. A Dana 44 could be built to withstand 500-600 horsepower reliably, although some builders claim they can build trannys that will take more horsepower.

 

[Vettefan87]

Ah, that clears some things up. Now all I need is the money, and I will be good to go. Boy owning a Corvette is expensive :L.

 

[rrubel]

Heh. No... OWNING a Corvette is not expensive. MODIFYING one is...
[RICHR]

 

[Vettefan87]

Yeah I agree to that. Oh well at least it is something that puts a grin on my face.

 

[c4cruiser]

If your car has a 4+3 manual tranny in it, it will have a Dana 44 differential. Auto tranny cars got the D36. If you have a D36, just find a D44 differential and carrier and have it properly prepped with the axle ratio you want to use.

You should also upgrade the u-joints as they really are the weak link in the drivetrain. You can also get larger diameter half-shafts.

 

[Vettefan87]

Yeah I have the D36. I almost hate looking for them, because I know when I find one I will want it, but I don't have the money to get it.

 

[Edmond]

Yeah I have the D36. I almost hate looking for them, because I know when I find one I will want it, but I don't have the money to get it.

You will in time. Not all of us here have big budgets like Ken.:L

 

[Moonunit 451]

Yeah I have the D36. I almost hate looking for them, because I know when I find one I will want it, but I don't have the money to get it.

They are getting REALLY expensive, so just look and try to find a good deal. You used to be able to find the 44's for around $1200 or so less than two years ago, now it's in the 2G range :eek

Oh yea, and you probly shouldn't listen to your freinds, sounds like they don't know much about Vettes. BTW, you are a stroker and 100HP away from worrying about a 44

 

[Vettefan87]

Hey is this worth 1700 bucks? I know shipping would kill me. Is this about what I will have to pay to get one? http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=33731&item=7971656475&rd=1&ssPageName=WDVW

 

[Vettefan87]

BTW, you are a stroker and 100HP away from worrying about a 44

It is not breaking it I am afraid of. From what everyone says I can't get 3.33's in mine, and those are the gears I want.

 

[Moonunit 451]

Hey is this worth 1700 bucks? I know shipping would kill me. Is this about what I will have to pay to get one? http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=33731&item=7971656475&rd=1&ssPageName=WDVW

In a heartbeat! Find out how many miles are on it and what ever else you can.

3.33's only came in one ore two years (?90-91). 3.54's would be nice No 3.33's in the D36's.

 

[Vettefan87]

How do I determine between the Dana 36, and the Dana 44 Looking at that, I noticed that mine does look similar to it. Any markings or anything? I would hate to buy one to find out mine has one in it, but I highly doubt that, I just want to make sure.

 

[Moonunit 451]

I'd try and get in touch with this guy right away if I were you. There are advantages to getting the whole setup, like no spacers or special ordered wheels, you can use 88 - 96 wheels, bigger rear brakes and so fourth. I'd buy it now before someone else does. I think you'll lose your parking brake if I recall correctly.

 

[Moonunit 451]

do a search, I'll post pics as quick as I can. The guys got a good rating and other stuff for sale, send him a message, get his #, talk to him and lock this one up.

 

[Moonunit 451]

It's a 44.