i was just wondering if anyone could tell me how strong an 8 inch rear really is and how much abuse they can take, thanks for the help

 

Some have poured over 400 HP to their 8" rears with no problem.
They are tough......

 

It really depends on how you plan to use it, how much traction you have and what kind of transmission you run. An 8" will take quite a bit of street abuse with an automatic. The case is the weak link, even with a set of good quality gears. Throw a manual into the mix with sticky tires and traction bars, and a healthy small block will have the capability to crack the case. The common point of failure is the boss where the small pilot bearing on the pinion goes into the case. Ford knew what they were doing when the equipped K code and larger engined Mustangs with 9" rears.

 

thank you for the help, as i will have a little over 400 horsepower and a 4 speed toploader, i do not plan on going to the strip or having super wide tires or traction bars, or anything too serious, i think i will be fine with my little 8 inch, but if it happens to break that just gives me an excuse to buy a new 9 inch and again thank you

 

Yeah, I'm wih you. "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."