3.23 vs. 3.55

My car has 3.23's and 26" tall tires and if it had any more gear it would be screaming driving down the road at 65.

You apparently had a 7 1/4 axle before. you need backing plates for your brake size and type from an 8 3/4 or 8 1/4 rearend, which might be a bit difficult if you still have the small bolt.