I'm running a stock 68 Chevy 8.2" 10 bolt rearend with Richmond 3.55 and an Auburn limited-slip. Does anyone have any idea of how much HP a setup like this can handle. Desk Top says my engine is turns out about 360 HP with 390 fp torque. (I,ve used it all once or twice) Should I start saving up for a Differential Girdle?? Thanks, Rhat

Well, I'll tell you that I have done 8.2's in cars with blown small blocks making 650HP and throwing another few 100 on top with juice and they have lived on the street for going on 10 years now. I also had one in a 67' that I had with a GM crate 350cid (205HP version) and managed to drop the pinion head out the bottom of the housing.

The difference? Chassis weight and the car actually hooking up. But I have seen an 8.2 live through plenty of abuse if it is set up right .....deburing the ring and pinion...use of a solid crush sleeve and proper bearing preload....etc.

Before I get into any comments about the 'Girdle', I will say that you will get various opinions on this device. I can tell you that I know the Gentleman that engineered and marketed the girdle before he sold the rights.....and he has even admitted that it doesnt work all that well, but it has made him some good money.

The problem with the girdle is that it being constructed of aluminum and all the other parts it is in contact with are iron and/or steel. Physics shows that the basic difference between these metals is their rates or thermal expansion. So when you follow the 'directions' for how to "properly" adjust the preload, that it is just a basic approximation. Because as soon as the cover heats up, the preload changes. So for it to work as advertised, the differential has to be maintained at a constant working temperature for the pre-load to 'cover the anomaly'. If too little, it does nothing. If too tight, it pinches the bearing race which will lead to bearing failures and/or main cap breakage.

It works for a drag car, that doesnt really get the warm up time asociated with driving on the street, so it would actually help in that respect.....drag strip only. It wont 'grow' too much to effect bearing preload.

As for the street, dont waste you're time and/or money with the consideration of its use. Save your money towards the purchase of an 8.5 or 12bolt.

You are better off using a billet steel main cap on the driverside and employing studs' for fastners than actually using a "Girdle".

Girdle = new snake oil technology (for street people).

I have some new and improved swap land here in San Diego if you're interested ;)

The 8.2 has other problems that would not be helped by this cover. I think the money would be better spent on a 8.5 10 bolt or 12 bolt.

Chicane, Only if that land between a parking garage and an industrial park. Thanks both for the advice. It does make me feel better. Rhat

I'm glad I threw away $ 175.00 on mine now (8.5"); it does look tough !