It looks like Im going to have my rear rebuilt.  The noise isnt that bad after the fluid change but I do have a few leaks at the pumpkin and it does look like its time.  I have a few questions and im wondering what you guys think...

The rear leaf, 300, 330 or 360 lbs?  Being its an 81, I will continue the monoleaf.  I like a stiff ride but im not racing, its a cruiser

Rubber or Poly on the bushings?

I have a 2:87 rear.  The guys told me with the mild work done, going to a 3:23 the car will be much more responsive.  I dont care about the MPG but I dont want to scream on the hiway.  This is important to me

Lastly, Soup to nuts on a total rebuild I was told they cant see it going any higher then 3k with tax and being as low as 2400.00.  Thoughts?

 

THANKS!!!!!!  KEvin. 

 

Going to a 3.23 rear won't effect your RPM's very much (11.25% increase) , but will help your low end. I would go with the 300 or 330 spring as the bigger number are for high HP engines. $2400 - 3000.00 seem high to me for just the rear replacement as it's not that hard to do in a shop enviroment. Are they doing all the u joints too & bushings?

Alan

Alan, They are doing everything from soup to nuts incl the U-joints and bushings

3k For a rear end build  Whoa!

I had the rearend re-built withh 355`s  360 mono leaf spring. half shafts ,drive shaft and trailing arms done at van steel for 3k.

I had the 330 spring on ,it felt bouncy to me and I changed it to the 360 .  .3:55`s I put in are nice much better response.and not to bad on the highway.

replaced my rear 18 month ago. got the assemble from midamerica. after returning the old rear for core charge and $80 shipping I replaced everthing for under $1000. If you have access to a lift you can do it mid america gave good instructions to include the breakin period.

How about the trailing arm?

It still seems alittle high to me as the parts should cost around $1000.00 or less & 6 to 8 hrs is plenty of time to do it especially by an expert.  If you're getting the trailing arm rebuilt too then 2400-3000.00 sounds like a fair price.

Alan

I am using Tylersparts - he is based in Wisconson - $450 plus the core. GREAT DEAL!!   And he gty's the work!! Sandblasted, painted, GM gearset (used, but in great condition, new bearings seals, clutches, etc. Economical!!

I can get the phone # for you tonight if you're interested.

Luke

Luke, Guys, I want to keep the car in NJ.  The transport will kill me on this.  I also dont have the hands, space, time or tools for this one.  Its over my head.  I'm gonna have to send this out.  I think I'll ring Corvette Paramedics.  There was one place I think Nostalia Motors, they were recommended in C3VR.  They never called me back... 

There's 7 shops recommended by members in NJ ..find them by going to the tools menu. I'll see if I can locate some more & get back to you.

Alan

Alan, I didnt even know we had that feature!  THANKS!