I have done alittle research and figured it was time to ask a few questions. I have a 2000 S10 pickup that I am putting a LS1 into (I know, I'm ready to take a bashing LOL) Anyways, I have a set of TEA heads on it with 224 cam in it but I still have the stock 7.625 rearend in the truck which is a ticking timebomb with the LS1 obviously. I'm gonna have to fab up something, (can get a used 8.5 10 bolt for a 2wd S10 but people want too much money for these and they have 3.08's in them normally) I figured it would be cheaper to go with a Ford setup. Just how good is the 8.8 rearend? What vehicles other than mustangs can you find them in? What rear diffs are the best? Also what are the most common weak points in these? I know the larger spline axles are the way to go. Thanks a bunch guys.
Jason

 

Since you're going to replace the rear end anyway, why not go with a Ford 9" rear end instead of the 8.8? The 9" Ford rear is the standard of excellance as far as strength is concerned and you can get more gear ratios for it than just about any other rear out there. And since the center section is removable, the differential can be set up on a bench rather than in the housing under the vehicle. salvage yards should have tons of them as they came in a lot of Ford cars and trucks over the years. and the aftermarket makes all kinds of pieces parts for it too.

 

yes I agree and their is a ton of gear ratios for it more than any other rear...

 

Why not wait and do an LS2/LS6 swap?