I put an 8 inch out of a 68 Mustang in my 67 I6 (upgrading to a 302). When I got the rear end and tore it open it looked really good with no visual abnormal wear or any sign of problems. I cleaned it up put it all back together added the gear oil and installed it. I have just recently finished up with the rear brakes and today I installed the drums and was going to put it in drive (it's up off the ground) and heres the thing. It spins, forward reverse, but I can stop the axles with my hands, even with a good amount of gas applied. There are no grinding sounds and all is quiet. But that isn't right. There is no way it would move the car. Any ideas? I appreciate your help. Thanks! I am going to tear it open again and want to know of any suspect areas to look that might be causing this that I missed before.

Kevin

 

If it is a conventional non-locking axle this is normal.

 

Whew, thanks!

 

Both wheels need to contact the ground. Good thing you didn't try that trick while a buddy held the other drum- somebody would've had a broken wrist.