12 Bolt swap questions

[Hooligans]

First off is it worth it? I have a 83' El Camino that is getting a BBC swap. I towed the truck home and then started to think...... would this rear axle be worth it. The rear axle is a 70's 12 bolt. I know that the truck 12 bolt has a smaller pinion then the car, and that all mounts would need to be fabbed since it is currently a leaf sprung rear axle.

I guess where I am going is ... I know most prefer the 9" but they are a pretty penny and this axle is free. I know it will need to be narrowed but what are your thoughts on this? Can it handle the power?

 

[bowtie81]

Is it a car 12 bolt or truck?
If it is a car then yes it is worth it, truck no.
Basically all you would need is a diff D/S and u-joints, 12 bolt swap arms, diff B/S rims (unless you plan to narrow) and your all set. This is for the car 12 bolt.

 

[t5montecarlo]

Because it is a leaf-spring rear, you will not have upper control arm ears. You will not be able to properly weld the ears to the center section.

 

[Hooligans]

yeah unfortunately this is from a truck. I was familiar with the top ears but wasn't sure what the options were

 

[Hooligans]

So... with that option out the window, I am going to hit up my local pick-a-part. What rear axle would be ideal? What vehicles... strictly cars or are the trucks an option also?