1981 Rear end/ Transmission
Thread Starter
Cruising
Joined: Jun 2020
Posts: 10
Likes: 0
1981 Rear end/ Transmission
Hey All,
I've got a 1981 corvette and was wondering how much power the drive train can handle as far as the transmission and rear end go. I've heard the rear end on the later c3's are notoriously weak. Thanks in advance.
I've got a 1981 corvette and was wondering how much power the drive train can handle as far as the transmission and rear end go. I've heard the rear end on the later c3's are notoriously weak. Thanks in advance.
Drifting
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,743
Likes: 289
From: Chardon Ohio
Well, lots of threads on that topic here. Generally the opinion is that the 80-82 diffs are a little weaker than the previous years iron diffs. Something about GM trying to save weight. Having said that there are plenty of guys here, including me who have beefed up there engines and still run the stock diff. I have a 430HP 383 small block and a 5 speed with the stock diff case. I changed the gears to 3.54 so not the original gears but I have had no problems for two years and several passes down the strip. I don't do anything like dump the clutch though.
Jim
Jim
Burning Brakes
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 1,170
Likes: 201
From: Willoughby Ohio
There are a few out there running 9 second quarter miles with the correct mods. Parts don't seem as easy to get and
there aren't too many rebuilders out there for the corvette dana . Adding a steel cap and using the 4 speed half shafts will help.
there aren't too many rebuilders out there for the corvette dana . Adding a steel cap and using the 4 speed half shafts will help.
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2017
Posts: 217
Likes: 21
Well, lots of threads on that topic here. Generally the opinion is that the 80-82 diffs are a little weaker than the previous years iron diffs. Something about GM trying to save weight. Having said that there are plenty of guys here, including me who have beefed up there engines and still run the stock diff. I have a 430HP 383 small block and a 5 speed with the stock diff case. I changed the gears to 3.54 so not the original gears but I have had no problems for two years and several passes down the strip. I don't do anything like dump the clutch though.
Jim
Jim
