Aluminum 833OD behind a 440...your thoughts

TylerW said

Hey guys:

I have a bud with a Dart Sport. It currently is running a "warm" 440 and 833(non-OD), 8-1/4 with 3.23 gears.

My bud's current endeavor is to build an aluminum 833OD for the weight savings, to get a lower first gear and a higher 4th gear. I can't say I disagree with that but he also is obsessed with finding and using an aluminum A/F tail housing, which is nearly impossible to find, other than buying a new one.

So, I personally feel that Mopar apparently never used an aluminum 833 behind a big block for good reason and especially never used aluminum tail housings in except in light cars * to the best of my limited knowledge*.

My bud is actually my older brother so please no caustic personal attacks. Otherwise, workable idea? Nonsense?

Click to expand...

Original Aluminum main cases typically use the large 308 bearing so check the pilot diameter on the bellhousing. There were aluminum tailshaft housings for small or large spline mainshafts, try Passon Performance or Brewers Performance. Direct Connection / Mopar Performance used to sell both, the main case and tailshaft housing, in aluminum. Passon sells everything your friend wants new and upgraded. I would have the steel inserts installed in an original main case to restore and beef it for intended usage. Passon can also do this. Others have given their experience on the 440 / OD combination, I have none. Big blocks were only installed in "A" bodies for 67-69. That was before generally available aluminum 4 speed components. I agree that 3.23's are a great everyday gear and we used 2.76 "pumpkins" for long road trips. With the overdrive 3.91's comes close: 3.91 x .71 = 2.78 or x .73 = 2.85.