I want to swap my rearend(in v8 Trans Am) out for a lower geared one. I've done the math and it just seems more economical. I hear the V6's have a better chance of having low gears. Can the rears withstand the extra power and are they direct bolt-ins? I figure by time I get my gears, posi, axles, install kit, and have some one do the installation I would have alot of money tied up in something so easy to break! I could do the rear swap myself I think because I'm really tuff on brakes.

 

Other than gear ratios V6 and V8 rear ends are the same unless you find a 9 bolt. 9 bolt rear ends are stronger but parts are harder to find and more expensive.

Starting around 86 or 87, maybe even 85, they went from a 7.5" ring gear to a 7 5/8" ring gear and in 90 they went from 26 spline axles to 28 spline axles.

So if you're looking for a 10 bolt, it's best to find one from a 90-92 for the strongest, reguardless of what engine was in the car.

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and check out the race car

87 IROC-Z SuperPro ET Bracket Race Car
461 naturally aspirated Big Block

Best ET on a time slip: 11.242 altitude corrected to 10.89
Best MPH on a time slip: 121.52 altitude corrected to 125.89
Altitude corrected rear wheel HP: 497.9
Best 60 foot: 1.546

Racing at 3500 feet elevation but most race days it's over 5000 feet density altitude!
Member of the Calgary Drag Racing Association

87 IROC bracket car, 91 454SS daily driver, 95 Homebuilt Harley