85GTRAGTOP

Could someone tell if my 85 GT convertible came with a 8.8 rearend? I'm having the car completely rebuilt (mostly stock) but I was thinking of going with 5 lugs and discs. Any issues in doing this conversion other than $$ ?

I have someone rebuilding the car and he saifd that the axles were really small and thought I should put in a Ford 9". Is there anything wrong with the original axles? I'm not using it at the track.

Thanks

306stang

usually the 85's came with 7 inchers but you should go to a guy who knows his stuff to find out. there might be somethign with the vin that you could verify that from.
As for the 9 inch, its not needed if you're not running at the track and pumping out serious horsepower. Go with an 8.8 inch. you'll find alot more kits for that at a lower price than the 9 inch. post some pictures of the pumpkin as well, maybe someone can recognize it for ya.

FoxbodyMech

I cant tell you exactly if it is an 8.8, you'd have to look at the castings on it to be sure. But i know that 85's did come stock with 8.8 rearends, and that my 85 has one.
I am not completely sure about any issues with the conversion, other than your normal "safety" because you are deviating from stock. I also want to convert my car over to 5-lug disks on all four corners.
you dont really need 9". they're nice, sure, but not necessary. especially if you are not racing or doing much performance driving. the stock axles will do just fine.

85GTRAGTOP

Thanks guys... I will probably post a pic at some point. I erally haven't had any issues with the stock rearend and would hate to replace it just because someone else didn't like it.

I would like to upgrade to the 5 lugs all around but I would also like to keep the original wheels... I guess I can't have both huh ?

FoxbodyMech

Yeah, i know. I have some nice GT wheels on my stang right now (ones that you see on pretty much EVERY 86-90 or so GT) but they're 4-lug. so when i convert her, i'll have to get rid of them

85GTRAGTOP

Is there a way to put discs on and keep the 4 lugs ?

306stang

i'd love to find the answer to this.

I only said the 85's came with 7 inchers because my friends got a 1 owner origional with 7 inch rear

85GTRAGTOP

I answered my own question... All this for $700.00. Is it worth it though ?

REAR DRUM-TO-DISC BRAKE CONVERSION KIT 79/86 4-LUG
Rear Drum-to-Disc Brake Conversion Kit for 1979-1986 4-Lug Mustang.

Put an end to "Deceleration Anxiety" with this conversion to rear disc brakes! Kit includes:
-2 Ventilated 10' Rotors
-2 Cast Iron 45mm Single Piston Calipers
-Semi-Metallic Pads
-Mounting brackets
-2 Dust Shields
-New Brake Cables
-All Fittings, Lines and Mounting Hardware
-Detailed Instructions.

-Brake Proprtioning Valve is not required.

85GTRAGTOP

Will this pic help identify it or do you need one from ther other side ?



[IMG]local://upfiles/48432/EC072C0C6E2E465D8131E901E7DCAFFE.jpg[/IMG]

FoxbodyMech

I believe that it is worth that money.