A Bigger Rear and a Bit of Steel Will Cure This Valiant’s Torque and Traction Woes
Last month we discussed the rearend buildup of Project Valiant Effort, wherein we fitted our boneyard 8¾ rear (a replacement for the original 7¼ rear) with taller gears and an automatic locker. With either rearend configuration the 360, which will ultimately sit up front, will have no problems leaving rubber signatures at the stoplight. The 7¼, however, would only be able to handle that kind of activity for a short time. With the 8¾, the durability issues are corrected (hopefully), and since we are planning ample quarter-mile blasts in the Valiant, we wanted to solve the problem of body flex as well.
Several aftermarket companies offer weld-in subframe connectors to minimize body flex. The problem is that most of these kits require cutting the floorpans, with the connector protruding into the passenger compartment. This presents a difficulty for rear seat passengers, and makes carpet installation a problem.
If you have access to a mig welder, a less-intrusive subframe job can be accomplished in your driveway. If you’re uncertain of your welding skills, you may want to have an experienced welder handle the subframe installation for you.