I have a 72' valiant with a 7-1/4. This rear end is a crap bucket that has seen better days. so what are some options and prices for some swaps/rebuilds. i dont want to have to get new rims, or too much mod. drivline is fine. but i also want to be able to swap ratio's easier.

well ya know, i really dont know what i want, i guess i just wanna hear some options from more experienced peeps.

If you want to swap ratios easy, go for the 8-3/4"
If you want cheap go 7-1/4 in good shape.
Or the ford8"

i was quoted 399 for a 7-1/4 rebuild. is this legit, or should i keep lookin

Price quoted is fairly realistic. Most parts are still widely available, since the 7-1/4" was also used under early 4-cylinder Dakota pickup trucks.

I bought a good used maverick 8" rear end for $120 last year. Here are a few things to consider:

Pros: Easy to get parts for http://www.currieenterprises.com/cestor ... nford.aspx
Fits the spring perches, and is really close to the stock width from flange to flange
Cheap and pretty easy to find.

Cons: Need a conversion U joint(napa 240-0353 when I checked)
Need larger axle lower spring/shock mount plates and U bolts to fit larger axle tubes.

The brake lines and brake choices are a wash, I suppose. I converted to rear disks at the same time. You could keep the Ford drums, if you want, and add in an adjustable proportioning valve to make it work right.

Greg

fyi - 7 1/4" uses smaller (2"?) u-bolts, 8 3/4" uses 3" so even if you do the mopar swap you'll still need the appropriate shock plates and u bolts

Having just investigated getting new rear ends, I had several offers for 8.25" (not 8.75") for under $100 drum to drum. Course those are all BBP. There were also some SBP 7.25s offered for <$100. Advertise on moparts and see what you can get. Might be cheaper than rebuilding yours if you find a good one.

the 8.75s are pricey, so good luck with that.

MJ