7 1/4 Rear Differential ~ Experiences

Prine said
I did a Search....and could not find what I wanted to know so here I am starting this thread.

I want to know:

YOUR experiences with the Good, Old, Tried and True 7 1/4 Differential.

I will start with one of my own Experiences.

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Anybody ever EXPLODE one?

Does catching one on fire count??? While the axle shaft passed me with the tire still bolted to it....

I had a mild 318 with 9.2 compression, 360 heads, 4 bbl, dual exhaust in my trusty old 68 Barracuda. (along with MP super stock springs)

Was driving down the highway doing 70 and heard noises coming from the rear end. So I slowed down to 55 trying to figure out what was happening. Then I see my left alxe shaft with the tire still bolted to it pass me on the right shoulder of the road, then finally come to a stop. When I got out to look, my tire and axle had come out of the alxe housing, and the gear lube was on fire. I was able to beat the fire out with a handy shop towel from inside my car. Luckily the arch of the super stock leaf springs and the long Mancini u-bolts kept the quarter panel from getting any damage. Then went to fetch my tire and axle while I waited for a tow truck.

That was the 3rd 7 1/4 axle that I blew up with that engine, so I went to 8 3/4" and didn't ever blow another axle again in that car.