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Originally Posted by ss wannabee
I would think the rear could live " beefed" for an automatic...Of course the 12-bolt would be stronger...and has a better list of parts available. But if you're "gung-ho" on "flogging" that 10-bolt...you'd have to work around some disadvantages...One is I don't think anybody made "Pro" Gears for this application EVER...so I would suggest "prepping" the available gear sets as best you can...de-burring, heat-treating, or whatever "current" metal process is suggested for stress-relieving today. Another problem with the "old" gears is ratio selection is a bit weak as they jump from 5.57 to 6.17 while the 12-bolt has 5.57/5.86/6.00, and 6.14 ratios...a better selection to "fine-tune" your combo with. Yes, the pinion is small on the 10-bolt 6.17 ring & pinion as mentioned before...a definate liability! BUT your combo might not require such a "stout" ratio depending on what you will run for tire size, trans ratio, etc....Another problem with the early rear end is I don't think anybody made a SPOOL for it although it could be "custom-made"...check out "Aubrey's " site the guy in Canada with the 409 car. I think he's running the 10-bolt in that car still....although a LOT of work to make it live. The GM "Arma-Steel" posi unit is pretty strong BUT needs help with NEW heat-treated FINE-SPLINED spider gears (for the custom axles), and other mods. Unless you have one of these NOW, they could be a bit pricey at swap meets today...I would also consider steel differential carrier "caps" (or reinforcing straps for the stock caps), larger grade-8 bolts, etc. All of these mods were pretty much "standard-issue" for racers running this rear-end back in the day...although today's horsepower levels, better tires, and better track prep should be factored in the decision...I would try and contact Aubrey...or maybe Tom's Differentials for more input on your situation....Good Luck!
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I know many years ago my brother ran the 55-64 10 bolt in his SS/P '55 hardtop.It had Henry's axles,spool,steel caps & side gears.I am not sure if the Zoom 6.17 gears were pro or not to tell you the truth. He used to launch the car at 9100 rpm used a 40 lb steel flywheel and a 2830 lb McLeod P.P. He broke rearend gears and cases on a regular basis.. It would be interesting to know that with the vastly improved clutch technology if the old 10 bolt would work. Sure was light weight. Still have all the components in my garage collecting dust. Would probably work good in a street car,except would have to have posi side gears made for those higher spline axles.
Mike,I think you are right the transmission 2-3 drop from 2.10 to 1.1 would probably be too steep. Way back I had 2.86/1.71/1 and it was bad enough. Some guys used to underdrive third gear but I had no choice.
Unfortunately the granny shifting was no joke. I heard it myself on video. I was not letting my foot off the gas either but it was very noticeable in the 1-2 shift. So after the good natured jokes and advice the pro-shifted toploader w/ super shifter is gone and the Jerico w/ Long shifter is in.Can't wait to try it.
But if that type of shifting behavior persists I may have to let someone else drive.
Allan