Juju and I drove over to Tyler. TX this weekend, in Big Red, the '68 convertible; wonderful trip, until we pulled off IH20. Clank, bang, grind, etc. We hauled it back to Richardson, TX to our shop/caretaker (Ashley Thibeaux/Absolute Autowerks), and the rear end is shot. Type "O", probably a 2.73. Question is: should I try and find a replacement (i.e. used) locally, or go ahead and spend much more for a complete rebuild on the rear end. Car is not raced or even driven hard, 350 2BBL motor rebuild about 2 years ago, w/about 800 miles on it. Not hopped up, except for a little bump with an Isky cam. Your thoughts and ideas would be much appreciated.
Aron

 

Aron,

Can you define "shot"? Knowing the exact failure will help determine the viability of a rebuild vs. replacement. Is it a broken gear tooth? Bad bearing? Broken axle? Bad posi unit... er, ANTI-spin unit?

 

Joe: Realized that "shot" was somewhat vague, and will be by the shop tomorrow to see if they can get the back cover off to check for specific damage to whatever. Once again, my mechanical abilities are limited, for whatever reason(s), on automobiles, darn it! Will get back to this thread asap w/additonal information. Thanks for the reply. How's the '62 coming? Love that car!!! Aron

 

I am a little far but I have a O type out of a 70 cutlass. I think it is a 2.73 or so. if you can find a way to get it from North Georgia you can have it for $100.
steve

 

Find out exactly what is wrong with it first.I'm sure you can get it up & running again.I have individual parts if needed.

 

I just pulled my rear end apart today (has non-posi original 2.73's). I am no expert in drivetrains, but everything looked perfect to me. Original pink and yellow paint on ring gear. They always ran smooth.

I was actually thinking of scrapping them, since I have Richmond 3.42's and an Eaton posi waiting. Not sure if my 2.73's will fit your or not though (out of my '72 Cutlass Supreme)

 

Unfortunatley,no. The 71-up 8.5" 10-bolt parts will not fit the 67-70 12-bolt O-axle.