8.5 housing possibilities?

[Robert M]

Ok guys i have a friend that will narrow any housing for me and weld on my spring perches and lower control mounts maybe even go with ford ends. So what housings will have upper mounts that i can get arms for? I guess12bolts too but around here 12bolts are next to impossible to find. Thanks!

 

[Doober]

You might try a B-Body, from what I understand the angle or spacing between the ears is different from a G-Body though, so you'll need heim joints on one end (possibly both)... unless you make your own crossmember for the upper trailing arms at the correct angle. I've considered a B-Body rear for mine, I just need the space to even try it, an axle to try, and the actual car (it's in MI, I'm in AZ).

Some have also used a Ford 8.8, but I like trying to stay GM personally.

 

[DOUG213XRJ]

455_82malibu Runs a 73-77 8.5 . He says its a bolt in, But the 73-77 is wider.


Doug

 

[prairiehotrodder]

I've installed an earlier 8.5 in a malibu. Its a bolt-in if you don't mind forcing a few things, binding suspension and wheels that stick out more. If you are 16, have no money and don't really care about doing things right then go for it. Thats why i did it. There are better ways now.
Brian

 

[SeaFox236]

When doing a 7.5" swap to a 8.5" does the drive shaft have to be shorten or will it fit?

 

[melloelky]

When doing a 7.5" swap to a 8.5" does the drive shaft have to be shorten or will it fit?

no worries it's a straight swap.

 

[SeaFox236]

Thanks.

 

[1981Regal]

The grand national Rears need 1 inch removed from the driveshaft.

 

[SeaFox236]

Well now I have 2 conflicting answers. Will just have to wait and see which is correct. Thanks.

 

[prairiehotrodder]

i'm pretty sure 1981regal is correct.