Thanks cracked!
This is definitley a future project, but I like to think ahead of the curve. It won't be a 100% race car and i'd actually like it to handle well too. I have a kind of stealth/g-machine/sleeper project in mind. I want it to look like not much more than a nice restored Duster at first glance. A Dana 60 I think would be overkill but you are absolutely right, after the money is spent I would still only have an 8 3/4.
I already have the 489 3.55 sure grip center section and the housing. I had to pull it out in some guys driveway but he had a torch and an air hose ready for me. Cost only $100. Made me realize how old I'm getting carrying that rear end and stuffing it in my 4Runner daily driver. I hurt for a couple days after that, lol! Next time I'll pull the axles and center section instead lifting the whole damn thing.
So, in my minds eye I'm seeing Moser axles and a cut housing, maybe with some reinforcing brackets welded on. I can do that myself. I'm trying to keep unsprung weight down and keep a sleeper look.
I'll keep my eyes open on Craigslist and some feelers out in regards to a decent shop out here. We'll see what I find when I get the cash saved up.