1965 Barracuda Rearend

[calvin taylor]

Hello to ALL!! I've got a 1965 Barracuda that I'm getting ready to start building...what I'm wondering about is what rearend to put in it, that will fit with the least modifications...an 8.75 is out of my price range...I have read that some Jeep, and some Explorer rearends come close to bolting right in...maybe others?...I guess what I need to know is, 1) which years of which vehicles will work, 2) what modifications are needed on each 3) if the stock driveline is used, does it need modifications 4) any other handy info!
Thanks for any info that can be given!

 

[Plymouth 65]

You can use any A body 8.25 rearend. 65'

 

[RustyRatRod]

I think some of the Ford Ranger 8.8 rear ends actually bolt in if I remember right. If you want to go that way. The Explorer rears you have to narrow one side I believe.

 

[Professor Fate]

8.8 Ford. Explorer needs 1 tube shortened (easy), Ranger nearly a bolt-in.
8.8 swap
Jeep Cherokee XJ 8.25 is about 60" overall, about 3" wider (1 1/2" per side) than an A body 8 3/4. Could work with the right offset wheels.
Jeep Liberty 8.25 is about 55-55 1/2 flange to flange, just a hair wider than the popular B body 8.75 swap for an A body.
Early 5 lug Dodge Dakota 8.25 is about 63" wide over all (3" per side wider), too much for an A body.
Early Mustang/Maverick 9" rears are darn near a bolt-in, but tougher to find. But 9" parts are cheap and common.
Keep in mind that many of these rears use a pinion flange instead of a yoke, so figure in some extra parts to make them work.
Dr. Diff offers A body 8.75 housing/axle packages (subject to availability) for less than some people want for their old crusty originals- Mopar A-Body 8 3/4" Housing & Axle Package

 

[junkyardhero]

no matter what you choose, figure on shortening your driveshaft at the very least. however you may need to build a new one outright.

likely you'll be doing u-bolts and shock plates.

if you're that far may as well do springs and shocks. just sayin'

 

[calvin taylor]

Thank you for all of those replies!! I've got lots of work ahead of me!!