Hello everyone. I have a 1987 442 hardtop that I just found out needs a new rear differential. The car has 130,000 miles on it and it is mostly original. The stereo and speakers are new, the front end joints have been replaced as well as the drivers side headlight. A couple years ago I had the engine rewired due to rats (no longer a problem) and the timing chain replaced. The interior is in good shape, the engine runs well, the body is dent free though the paint has rust as it has never been repainted. I am the second owner of the car. I know pictures probably help so if need be I will try to get some up. Any ideas what this car might be worth? Thanks.

 

Without pictures its tough. From what you described, maybe $1200.

 

NADA shows a low retail value of $2000 & a high value of $4500... Everything is based on condition, as well as demand... Photos would help...

 

I don't think it's really a high demand car which is unfortunate. Even the 83/84 Hurst Olds editions aren't bringing in much and they have the fabled lightning rod shifters. If it was me, I'd just put in new rear gears and drive it. I'm guessing that when you say new rear differential, it's really the gears that are trashed, not the axles. So a new carrier, ring gear and pinion. Shims and bearings - done. If you're handy with tools, you can do this job yourself. Or if you prefer a shop, it would likely cost around $800 - 900. That might be too big an investment for the car unless you plan to keep it. What are the chances of you finding a new rear axle at the local boneyard? Anything from 81 and up should work.

That was the last year of that body design. The only reason there are some 88 Cutlass Supreme's with that body is they were leftovers from 87 production. Not many 88 models were G body.

 

Thanks for the info. The shop quoted me $3600 to rebuild the differential. They said the gears were shot but they didn't know about the axles. The chances of me finding anything in my area at a pick n pull are low but I could always look. I don't really know.

 

The shop is planning to buy a small island with quotes like that. I would suggest you contact Jim Race on this site. He specializes in rear end rebuild. His screen name is Monzaz. If you clik this blue link it will take you to his Private messaging. He will tell you exactly what's needed if you give him accurate information.

 

Where are you located??? Most likely your 442 has an 8 1/2 Posi... Most any 8 1/2 G-Body rear will fit from a Regal, Grand Prix, Monte SS, 442 & Hurst... These can be had for about $800 to $1500... If you are desperate, you can also use a 7 1/2...

 

But then you have to change the drive shaft.