I have an 88 base model. Would this rear end be a direct fit?

http://spokane.craigslist.org/pts/2187707449.html

 

Sure will! Looks to be in good shape too.

 

Nice. Now, I've never done a drum to disc swap before. What parts will I need other than what comes with that rear end in the picture?

 

You will need a disk/disk proportioning valve otherwise you will be locking up the rear brakes at every stop. That or you can do the adjustable proportioning valve mod but that takes a bit more work.

 

$400 seems steep to me. Isn't there an issue with getting parts, etc. to fix a 9 bolt once it craps out? I see 4th gen rears with LS1 brakes and better gears go for $150 less all the time - granted stock wheels stick out a tad, but that seller doesn't have to know that's an issue for you. I'd mention the ill-fate of repairing a 9 bolt, and the cheap price of a 4th gen rear, and see if he'd take half that!

 

Bit high! They go for $200 to $250 in the Chicago area..

 

Regardless of the disc rear you chose, you'll need a combination valve, parking brake cables, and most likely the correct drive and/or driven gears to make the speedo read correctly. Though the following link is a 10-Bolt FAQ, the section on brakes will be the same for a 9-bolt:

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

JamesC