12 bolt vs Dana 60

[GTX JOHN]

We have replaced most of our 8 3/4 mopar rears with Dana 60 AND lost no ET whatsoever on our Stock and SS stuff.

[Ed McLawhorn Jr.]

Originally Posted by GTX JOHN

We have replaced most of our 8 3/4 mopar rears with Dana 60 AND lost no ET whatsoever on our Stock and SS stuff.

John, my main reason for exploring changing to 12-bolt would be the weight difference. Any performance would be gravy. Where I'm at now, I'm stuck with one class and have little to no flexibility to move up a class unless I want to run over 90lbs heavy. There's 116lbs difference to move up one class.

[Myron Piatek]

It's been a few years since I switched from a braced 8 3/4" to a Dana 60, partially to gain some weight and was confident of no ET loss. I think it was only about 30-40lbs difference. Haven't run the car much, though.

Dana 60 is more efficient than an 8 3/4, but not more than a 12 bolt. (I recall an magazine article from the '70's or 80's. Not much, but it's there.) When bigger parts are cut down, like shaving weight from a ring & pinion, spools, etc. the differences in weight will be reduced. A 12 bolt will help in weight & efficiency over a Dana 60, but I have no idea about the actual weight comparison and it may sacrifice a bit too much durability. Seems like the ring & pinion is the weak link in an 8 3/4 as well as the 12 bolt.

Lightened ring rear, drilled axles w/milled flanges, Kirkey seats, aftermarket brakes?