Rear End

[RoundRockCobra]

Guys,
I need a little help with this one. I have a 351W w/425HP as the engine I am going install in my LSC. Can someone help me with the rear end. I have selected the one below and need to know what the consensus is. I would add the 11 inch brake assembly to this rear end as well. What do you guys think?

Brand: Ford Racing Performance Parts
Product Line: Ford Racing 8.8 in. Traction-Lok Rear Axle Assemblies
Axle Type: Semi-floating
Axle Shafts Included: No
Axle Shaft Spline Quantity: 28
Brakes Included: No
Center Section Type: Traction-Lok
Third Member Included: Yes
Ring and Pinion Included: Yes
Ring and Pinion Ratio: 3.73:1
Wheel Studs Included: No
Bearings Included: Yes
Seals Included: Yes
Quantity: Sold as a kit.

Axle Assembly, Rear, 28-Spline, 3.73:1 Ring and Pinion Ratio, 8.8 in. Ford/Mercury, Kit

The perfect upgrade for Fox-body Fords.
Upgrade the weak 7.5 in. rear-end in your Fox-body Ford to late model Mustang specs with one of these brand new 8.8 in. Traction-Lok rear axle assemblies from Ford Racing. Approximately 35 percent stronger than the production 7.5 in. axle, these units come fully assembled with new housings, gear sets, brackets, and 28-tooth Traction-Lok differentials. Plus, they're perfect for use as replacement axles for models originally equipped with 8.8 in. rear-ends.

[tpiini]

If I were choosing a rear for that engine I'd stick with a 3.55 maximum, with a preference toward a 3.42 or 3.25 gear set in a Cobra.

That said, what is the width of this rear? I'm thinking probably too wide for the LSC body. (?)

[Excaliber]

Listen to tpiini. Anything less than 3.55 will not only go up in smoke (rear tire smoke) but will make the car more dangerous than it has to be.

[392cobra]

Given a choice,why not go with a Currie 9" ?

They supply LSC with straight bolt in rear ends with disc brakes.

[RoundRockCobra]

Well, I would have gone with the LSC but it is a little pricey and I can put one together cheaper. I dont want to skimp but I also dont want to overpay. And by the way I appreciate all the feedback.

[Madmiles442]

Concur on the rear end gear. Mine's a 3.73 and first gear lasts as long as you can throw a shift. Saving my pennies and dimes for a 3.42.

[trularin]

I agree with Fred ( not always, but most of the time ) why not get the nine and plug in a 3:55 or better. I went with the LSC supplied housing and added my own PIG. I also went with 31 spine axels.

I am not sure the price difference is that much to not get the nine.

Just my $0.02

[lewismc]

I have a 3.73:1 rear and am very please with it. My top speed is 140+ @ 6500 rpm and it sure does get there quickly. If you have any amount of horsepower these car are squirrely with any rear ratio.

Don't base your rear ratio on highway rpms and gas milage. Opinions due vary.

Lew

[priobe]

lewismc you have an email

[Tim Brewer]

Roundrock,
What does that 8.8 cost? Your going to have to have the housing and the axels cut down and would have to get all the brackets to weld on for the 4-link and the panhard bar. Then ,how much horsepower will an 8.8 hold? The 9" currie that Lonestar offers is the about the best you could do. The 9" ford rear end is just about indestructable and is used for racing in practally every brand vehicle made, ask anyone. Do yourself a favor and get the Currie from Lonestar.
Tim

[Excaliber]

I'd base my rear gearing on highway rpm and gas mileage and get my CAM profile to match my highway cruising rpm.

My old cam profile didn't like much rpm below 2500-2800 or so, which was a real pain in the butt around town. I'd run 3rd or even 2nd gear a lot. I changed the profile to a lower rpm range (more torque) and am much happier with it over all. I wasn't looking for 'better mpg' but sure was surprised when it went up, a LOT!

[lewismc]

Originally Posted by priobe

lewismc you have an email

Yep. lew@centtech.com