Newb w/ a problem - 85 dif in a 96?

[roco1004]

I have a 1996 trans am, LT1 with a M6 transmission and the stock rear end. I also have a 1985 trans am with a 305 v8 and a 5 speed manual. Yesterday I blew the gears in my rear end in my 96, and i cant afford to get a new dif housing or to pay someone to change the gears. I was wondering If I can just put the 85 dif in the 96, any info on this will help me greatly, thank you.

[Ωmega]

The rear end should bolt right up, but as far as driveshaft langth, I think it would be the same, but not completely sure.

[mrr23]

i know this is an old post, but i'll answer anyways.

well, the 85 has 26 spline axles and the 96 has 28 splines. so, no if you are refering to the carrier portion of it. now, to swap the gears alone, you'd still be paying someone to do that. also, you could swap the entire rear, but you'll have two problems. the overall length of the thirdgen rear is 2" shorter on each side. now, your wheels won't fit and rub the inside fenderwell. also, no ABS ring in the 85, so ABS won't work.