i tried searching, but couldn't find the answer i was looking for. i'm restoring a 1984 Trans Am and am not sure which rear end to use. i have two rears to choose from. both are from '84 Trans Ams and are stock. one is a posi disc, one is a posi drum - i believe they are both 3:23 ratio. i have the master cylinders and prop valves for each.
is one of these rears better than the other to use? my car is going to be a quick street car with maybe 2 visits to the track each year. i'll eventually be running a 350 engine with about 400hp at the rear wheels. i know there's much better aftermarket rears, but i won't be able to afford that for awhile.

 

I would think rear axle strength is the same, they are both same splined axles - ust different braking systems attached on the ends

 

Both have 26-spline axles. No difference in strength. The following FAQ may provide some useful info:

https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/tran...-10-bolts.html

JamesC

 

Forget about the brakes and pick the one that is in better shape. They're exactly the same.

 

As far as the brakes go,i'd be tempted to go with the
drum-i've used both and have found the drum to be
more reliable,lighter,and just as effective as the pre-89
disc setups with their clumsy,clunky,leak-prone calipers.
Also i'd say the drum has better pedal feel.
mine has discs now(they do look cooler)but i might
switch back to drum later.

 

The Delco-Moraines have a bad reputation on the board, but with the "fit" kit in place, they seem to function well--at least mine did. Here's the recall:

http://members.shaw.ca/crussel/recalls/86c28/86c28.html

JamesC

 

Just for an extra measure you should have the axle tubes welded. I know a guy that knows a guy that knows a guys sisters,brothers,uncle that can do it for you. Let me know.