The rear end in my 66 needs refurbed or replaced. What are the best late model donor vehicles to look for? If i rebuild what is the best gear ratio for general street use but with a little more grunt than the stock 2:80?

 

You can go with a Versailles rear and get the added benefit of disc brakes.

Most "late model" rears are going to use coil springs and require the installation of spring perches for you leaf springs. What ever you get make sure the length is acceptable.

You may be better off just changing the pumpkin. IMO, a 3.25 or 3.50 would be just about perfect for a street car with a 4 speed or C4. 3.89 + if you have a 5 speed or AOD. A lot of the Mustang IIs used 3.25 gears. You just need to know what codes to look for if you decide to go searching.

 

Why not just look for a replacement third member? The center section is available from a variety of sources with different ratios. Simple installation, pull the axles, unbolt the drive shaft, then the center section, grab your replacement and reverse the install process. A quick Saturday afternoon job.

 

Thanks for the replies. I've been checking prices of center sections. That's lokks like the way to go.