how can I tell if a 9 bolt is posi or not
 

Hi,

I am going to look at a used 9 bolt for sale. I was told it was out of an 88 GTA (axle is already removed)

Seller did the "torque test" for me and said it took over 50 ft/lbs to turn one side with the other locked (hopefully confirming the cones are ok)

Does this test alone confirm it must be a posi?

thanks, I'm a noob with axles and I was thinking of swapping this supposed working one in while I try to do the cone repair on my worn out one.

thanks,
-Dan

Re: how can I tell if a 9 bolt is posi or not
 

Yes.

I've only seen ONE pic of ONE of that model rear that wasn't posi, so your odds are pretty good regardless.

Re: how can I tell if a 9 bolt is posi or not
 

cool thanks! now gotta hurry up and get it!

Re: how can I tell if a 9 bolt is posi or not
 

If you turn one wheel and the other turns the same way it is a posi. I think this works with the GM posi.

Re: how can I tell if a 9 bolt is posi or not
 

I've never seen or heard of an open diff 9-bolt, but as old as they are, there is no guarantee that the posi is still good inside. Most likely is, but ya never know. My 87 9-bolt is perfectly alive.