I am interested in swapping out the rear end in my 89 rs (2:73, drum) in favour of something with a better ratio and posi.

I am thinking about something along the lines of a 3.43 posi rear end for a car which is slightly modified (dont really care if its drum or disc), but what should I keep my eye open for when purchasing a used rear end from someone parting out a car etc??

Any ideas?

Make sure that if you buy used you are buying sonething from a 3rd gen car and from somebody who knows what they are talking about. It is pretty tough to tell if the replacement has many miles on it if it is used. I tried this back in '93 and ended up walking home in the rain one night.

Later, I swapped out the entire (drum) rear for a disc brake housing and new gears. This cost WAY MORE than I expected it would turning into yet another black hole. In retrospect I should have just replaced the factory gears with a brand new posi unit of appropriate ratio (instead of wasting time looking for a 'deal' on used pieces).

For what it is worth, my current 3rd gen has a 3.42 posi (factory) with drums which works really well. I like this ratio as a compromise, having tried the 3.73 which was wayyyy more fun but not practical if you ever use the hiway. I've tried GM, Richmond, and Auburn and could not tell the difference between brands.

Hope this helps,
RP.

Thanks!

I am only thinking about getting something from a 3rd gen car. As far as relying on the seller to provide me with the details regarding the rear end, I know that in all probablility that is not going to happen, atleast not truthfully most times.

As far as identification I know of the different axle codes etc, and will pop the cover to make sure the same gears are inside and dont look mashed or anything, any other suggestions as to knowing what to look for? And are miles really all that much of an issue with a rear end if I intend on getting it serviced before throwing the whole thing in?

Thanks again!

From my perspective mileage matters a great deal... but then I've had a rear-end break on me already so am a bit sensitive on the subject. I think the by the time I was done it cost about $1000 CDN. Just depends on what else breaks when the r/e lets go. It can be a real setback moneywise.

For what it's worth, my current ride has 70,000 documented kilometers on it and the rear end is acting up already (it has some slop in it). Not too thrilled about that let me tell you. I went to a trans shop and they said they could try adjusting the rear gears but made no promises.

RP.