[Alan Roehrich]

RJ, there are some guys running the 8.5 late model 10 bolt in real fast cars. I'm not completely convinced that the reduced weight and drag is enough to offset the increased risk of breakage and the increased maintenance costs. It's the same basic design as the 12 bolt, it is just slightly smaller and lighter. I'd say you could get by with doing it. I'm not sure it'll make enough difference in ET and MPH to cover the at least 50% reduction in ring and pinion life, especially when you go to 5 series gears, as the pinion gear gets really small, and that's where the weak point is.