Posted by Charlie Ping (IP: 209.253.9.11) on September 16, 1999 at 18:19:28:
In Reply to: Versaille Rear End/Traction Loc? posted by John B. on September 15, 1999 at 14:35:26:
All Versailles had 9-inch rear ends with disc brakes. All. Many have been swapped out so the rear could go in a Mustang and the Versailles could still drive & be sold, though.
All Versailles had 2.50:1 gear ratio. I think traction-lok was optional.
Mustang II or Maverick rear end parts will not interchange at all.
To obtain a posi, call a junkyard, or go to a swap meet. they usually run about $150 singly. A 3.50 or 3.70 posi complete pumkin is usually about 300-400 dollars. For the Versailles rear end, you must get a 28-spline posi. Most trucks had 31-spline axles, but some had 28.
I bought a 1977 Versailles with a 351W (only year for that option) for $600. I bought a 3.70 Posi rear pumpkin for $160 (super deal) at National Trail Maverick Nationals in 1997. I replaced the bearings and all 4 seals, both rotors, and pads on the rearend. I put about $1000 dollars into the project, but then sold the car, engine, trans, & wheels for a total of $300. It was a straightforward swap except for the emergency brake (still haven't figured it out).
This is an easy swap, just remember, 9-inches were in Full size cars from 1957-79 and Pickups from 1957-1986. Some midsize cars had the option as well. Use these cars as a resource for posi's, gears, and pumpkins.
: I'm getting confused. Can someone please clarify a few points? Do all Versailles have 9" rear ends? Do any of them also have Traction-Loc? Can you convert a non-Traction-Loc Versaille rear end using the Traction-Loc from a Mustang II or other Traction-Loc equipped car? What parts would be involved? What's this about having to change the "pumpkin"? What's a pumpkin exactly? What's a "war case"? To use the Versaille rear disc brakes do you need to use the Versaille front brakes too? Thanks for any help offered. John B.