Hello from the Newbie

[Budro35]

Hey guys, I am kinda new at this so here goes. Need some advice on the following project. Starting to build a 35 Dodge pickup - rat rod style - Original chassis with complete front end - Bought a 1975 Dodge Dart parts car - Slant six w/auto - BIG QUESTION - Want to use the 7-1/4" diff because it is with the car - I know it is on the weak side but this thing is going to be a little bit lighter - Guessing dart weighs 3200 lbs & truck should get in there around 2500 lbs or less. Help me with your thoughts!! Thanks

[cudabob496]

Welcome, new guy! Well, if you will only power it with the slant 6, maybe drive it until it breaks? But I ain't a rearend expert.

[rampage_82]

Hey it's a rat rod, you're supposed to use all the wrong obscure parts...right? Use the original, and make it nasty lookin' it is the tube driveshaft right??? hehe that'd be awsome

[RacerHog]

Welcome..........

[dodger1]

Welcome to the site!! If you're gonna use the /6 with an automatic, the 7 1/4 should be fine considering the weight. However, there are at least a million 8 1/4's lying around in any j/y (OK so I exaggerate a touch!) They were in many F-J-M cars as well as later A and light-duty B bodies. So if/when you bust the 7 1/4 you'll not have a problem replacing it. Only other thing is there aren't many gear ratios available for the 7 1/4.