The Rear Gear: A Podcast by Redbird Speed: Recent Episodes

Redbird Speed

The Rear Gear aims to educate automobile enthusiasts on rear end parts from custom street cars, drag racing, autocross, and everything in between. Our knowledge is in housings, axles, differential parts, and brakes. We will share technical knowledge, product information, and interviews. We want to save you time, money, and headache throughout your build. Thanks for listening.

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In this episode, we discuss the 9" Ford rear end and mistakes to avoid when ordering parts. First, the type of rear. The 9" is a great rear and I won't talk you out of it. We discuss the width of the rear in conjunction with the suspension and wheels you are using. Next, make sure the spline count of the axles are appropriate for the intended use of the vehicle. You will want to make sure the housing ends and brakes are going to match up also. This is something you will want to think ahead on too. Will you be wanting to do a Baer or Wilwood Brakes swap in the near future? Make sure there is going to be aftermarket support for your future brakes. Center section material, spool, posi, limited slip differentials, yokes, and gear ratios are all important for the purpose of the rear. Consider the future suspension options on your vehicle. Be careful telling your technician that its "stock" when you have plans to run split mono leaf or coil-overs at the drag strip. Often times there are other brackets needed to accomodate these options. Match the studs in the rear axles to the after market front brakes. Many manufacturers are using 1/2"-20 studs on the fronts. You don't want to order stock 7/16, 12mm, 14mm on the rear to find out they don't match.

There are a lot of options when ordering a rear like this. It doesn't need to be intimidating. Be cautious in dealing with a big box store that doesn't specialize in drive train components. These are all made to order and can be optioned accordingly. Do not settle for a part numbered package when you have have it made to fit your exact needs for the same money. If you want to talk about a rear for your vehicle, don't be afraid to reach out.

9” Ford Complete Rear Ends or Housing/Axle Packages
https://www.redbirdspeed.com/9inchrears

Looking for a 9" Ford Center section? We have assembled third members:
https://www.redbirdspeed.com/center-sections

Need new axles, bearings and studs?
https://www.redbirdspeed.com/axles

Redbird Speed Tech Page - There is a picture of the housing ends and their dimensions discussed on our tech page.
https://www.redbirdspeed.com/tech

Looking for a complete rear end?
Shop by Application - Camaro, Chevelle, Nova, G-Body, C10, Silverado, S10, Tri 5 1955-1957 Chevy, Impala, Caprice, Mustang, Mopar, Baer Brakes, Wilwood Brakes, and more
https://www.redbirdspeed.com/store

Housing Ends, T-Bolts, Retainer Plates
https://www.redbirdspeed.com/housing-ends-t-bolts-retainer-plates

Differential Parts
https://www.redbirdspeed.com/differentialparts

Find us on Facebook at Redbird Speed LLC or Instagram at @redbirdspeed

Join us if you would like to learn what we have to offer, connect with others, or ask a question about your application.

www.redbirdspeed.com

As always, thank you for your support! Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the latest from our team.

Like what your hearing? Search us on YouTube for a lot of technical videos.

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In this episode, we discuss how you can use a set of Explorer disc brakes on a build with bolt in style axles. This setup uses a Big Ford New Style Torino housing end, axle, 1 piece press on ball bearing, shim, and retainer plate. If you have any questions on how this stacks up do not hesitate to reach out to us.

These are great for a mild hot rod or street car. Replacement parts like pads and calipers are easily obtained.  As a bonus, using a Torino end with a common 2 1/2" brake offset leaves you with endless kits offered from almost every brake manufacturer if you're looking to upgrade in the future. 

Also, if you're looking for information on how to measure axles or a housing check out Redbird Speed - Tech Information. We have some resources available here and we are only a phone call away. 

Find us on Facebook at Redbird Speed LLC or Instagram at @redbirdspeed

Join us if you would like to learn what we have to offer, connect with others, or ask a question about your application.

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As always, thank you for your support! Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the latest from our team. 

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In this episode, we discuss lightening options for your housing, axles, differential parts, and brakes. We discuss purpose built cars for drag racing, autocross, circle track, road racing, and street use. There are times where lightening your parts is critical to save weight. There are also times where you should not be sacrificing strength for weight. 

Axles

  • Gun Drill
  • Scalloped Flange
  • Lightening Holes

Housings

  • 3/16" vs 1/4" Tube Stock
  • 12 Bolt OEM castings vs Aftermarket over built castings
  • 9" Ford Big Web Cans vs Fabricated Cans

Differential Parts

  • Aluminum vs Nodular Iron Cases
  • Aluminum Yokes and Spools
  • Lightened Ring Gears

Brakes

  • Light Weight Drag Brakes vs 14" 6 Piston Autocross Brakes
  • Brake Fade vs Stopping Power

Find us on Facebook at Redbird Speed LLC or Instagram at @redbirdspeed

Join us if you would like to learn what we have to offer, connect with others, or ask a question about your application.

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As always, thank you for your support! Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the latest from our team. 

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In this episode, we discuss Housing Ends, Brakes, and the B Dimension. There are a lot of different housing ends to accommodate a variety of brake kits. These range from small Ford, Big Ford, Big Ford New Style Torino, 8.8 Mustang, 10/12 Bolt GM (Camaro, Chevelle, Nova), Large GM Pre 87 Truck, 8 3/4, Dana 60 5 Hole Mopar Ends, Olds/Pontiac, and Lamb Symmetrical. Typically, new construction is going to be manufactured with a Torino - New Style Late Ford end from most manufactures.

These items need to work together. Don't let this intimidate you, if you have questions just give us a call. When building a 12 bolt, 9 inch, or Dana 60 you need to know what your plans are for drum or disc brake kit. The housing ends and B dimension on the axle need to work in unison to make sure they work together and you end up with the correct brake offset.

Check us out at Redbird Speed - Tech Information . We have dimensions on housing ends. Also, the how to measure axle video contains helpful information on measuring the B Dimension on your existing axle shafts.

Find us on Facebook at Redbird Speed LLC or Instagram at @redbirdspeed

Join us if you would like to learn what we have to offer, connect with others, or ask a question about your application.

www.redbirdspeed.com

As always, thank you for your support! Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the latest from our team.

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In this episode, we discuss narrowing the rear end on your vehicle. This can include mini tubbed pro touring applications, drag cars,  mini trucks and more. We get into questions like how much can I narrow my rear? We cover information about suspension brackets/lower control arm mounts and distance to housing ends, how to measure, things to consider, and industry trends. Deep dish wheels are the new trend. Find out what you need to know to fit them into the wheel well. Big tires under a drag car will also require a rear more narrow than stock also. Contact us to talk further about your specific application. 

Find us on Facebook at Redbird Speed LLC or Instagram at @redbirdspeed

Join us if you would like to learn what we have to offer, connect with others, or ask a question about your application.

www.redbirdspeed.com

As always, thank you for your support! Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the latest from our team. 

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In this episode, we discuss options for factory rears like the 10 Bolt, 12 bolt, 8.8, or any stock rear. We cover some options such as fresh axles, bearings, studs, gear, posi traction differentials, spool, eliminators, aluminum girdle rear covers, welding the tubes to your housing, and even swapping your c-clips ends for bolt-in style ends. There is a lot you can do for your stock rear to strengthen it and reduce gear deflection. Contact us if you would like to discuss how these types of parts might work for you and your application. We are here to help. 

Find us on Facebook at Redbird Speed LLC or Instagram at @redbirdspeed

Join us if you would like to learn what we have to offer, connect with others, or ask a question about your application.

www.redbirdspeed.com

As always, thank you for your support! Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the latest from our team. 

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In this episode, we discuss the 12 Bolt Chevy Rear. We cover when its appropriate, spline size, bolt in vs c clip, posi traction differentials, gear ratio, yokes, rear covers, brakes, stud size, suspension options, and many other custom options. 

If you're ordering a rear and the person you're talking to isn't asking you questions about power level, how you're using your vehicle, what you plan on using for brakes, are you using aftermarket suspension, with your wheel and tire combo does it need narrowed, or many other options... RED FLAG! Listen to this podcast to make sure you cover all of your bases. 

Find us on Facebook at Redbird Speed LLC or Instagram at @redbirdspeed

Join us if you would like to learn what we have to offer, connect with others, or ask a question about your application.

www.redbirdspeed.com

As always, thank you for your support! Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the latest from our team. 

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In this episode, we discuss the differences between 8620 Street Gears and 9310 Pro Gears. We cover when you can use these gears and the appropriate application. Do you have a street car or a drag car? There is a fine line between race car and street car and the horsepower levels that are achievable today. 

Find us on Facebook at Redbird Speed LLC or Instagram at @redbirdspeed

Join us if you would like to learn what we have to offer, connect with others, or ask a question about your application.

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As always, thank you for your support! Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the latest from our team. 

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In this episode, we discuss 1993-1997 and 1998-2002 Camaro, Firebird, Trans Am disc brakes and how you can use them on your next project. These rear brake kits will work with a flush mount press on bearing. Listen in to hear how you can make this work for your Ford 9" Rear, Chevy 12 Bolt, Ford 8.8, Dana 60, or whatever housing you have! We have several similar kits for Mustang brakes, Explorer Disc, Chevy Car and truck drums. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have questions about your applicaiton. 

Find us on Facebook at Redbird Speed LLC or Instagram at @redbirdspeed

Join us if you would like to learn what we have to offer, connect with others, or ask a question about your application.

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As always, thank you for your support! Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the latest from our team. 

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In this episode, we discuss the differences in 1 piece sealed ball bearings and 2 piece tapered roller bearings. Sealed bearings are fully enclosed and self lubricated. They have seals on both sides and gear oil cannot get to the ball bearings. These are very common for normal street and strip usage. 2 piece tapered bearings are open, meaning you can see the rollers. They have an outer seal. These are stronger for applications like autocross, road racing, four wheel drive trucks, demolition derby cars, and anytime you will have an excessive side load. We discuss pros, cons, and interchangeability in the bearings. The bearings are made to different bearing journal diameters and thickness of bearing. This means the axles are going to be different and need to be replaced when switching between the two. Reach out to us if you have questions. Thanks for listening. 

Find us on Facebook at Redbird Speed LLC or Instagram at @redbirdspeed

Join us if you would like to learn what we have to offer, connect with others, or ask a question about your application.

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As always, thank you for your support! Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the latest from our team. 

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In this episode, we discuss several options for carriers. This includes the spool, commonly used in high horsepower drag racing or circle track cars. We discuss spring and clutch style posi units that are good for mild street cars. This includes the Tracloc and Eaton posi units. We get into the gear driven units such as the Truetrac and Wavetrac. We talk a little about their advantages including drive out of the corner and strength. We also discuss the Detroit Locker positive traction differential. We go over several applications and when we like to use what unit.  Let us know if you have questions about what you need for your street cars, drag racing, show cars, stock restoration, autocross,  donk racing,  or whatever custom application you're working on. 

Find us on Facebook at Redbird Speed LLC or Instagram at @redbirdspeed

Join us if you would like to learn what we have to offer, connect with others, or ask a question about your application.

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As always, thank you for your support! Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the latest from our team. 

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In this episode, we discuss axle studs. We talk a little about stock studs, diameter of the studs, and the importance of the stud length. We also get into planning ahead. Many manufacturers such as Baer Brakes or Wilwood will use 1/2 studs in their front kits. Any questions, don't hesitate  to reach out to us!

Find us on Facebook at Redbird Speed LLC or Instagram at @redbirdspeed

Join us if you would like to learn what we have to offer, connect with others, or ask a question about your application.

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As always, thank you for your support! Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the latest from our team. 

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In this episode, we discuss when we use 12 Bolt Chevy and Ford 9" rearends. We look at how to apply them to your situation, the pros and cons of each, and many of their features. If you have any questions about your application, please reach out to us. We are more than happy to point you in the right direction. 

Find us on Facebook at Redbird Speed LLC or Instagram at @redbirdspeed

Join us if you would like to learn what we have to offer, connect with others, or ask a question about your application.

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As always, thank you for your support! Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the latest from our team. 

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In this episode, we discuss brake systems used in high horsepower swaps like Hellcat, Coyote or LS Turbo cars. We talk about some specs, less expensive vs high end kits, safety and setting aside a budget for a brake system. 

Find us on Facebook at Redbird Speed LLC or Instagram at @redbirdspeed

Join us if you would like to learn what we have to offer, connect with others, or ask a question about your application.

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As always, thank you for your support! Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the latest from our team. 

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In this episode, we discuss the two common axle types, C-Clip and Bolt in style. We tell a little about common applications, pros and cons, and when we like to use these axles. If you need a custom set of axles or have any general questions, do not hesitate to reach out to us. We have several options through Moser Engineering and Quick Performance.

Find us on Facebook at Redbird Speed LLC or Instagram at @redbirdspeed

Join us if you would like to learn what we have to offer, connect with others, or ask a question about your application.

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As always, thank you for your support! Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the latest from our team. 

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In this episode, we discuss Moser Engineering brackets on A-Body and G-Body applications. We break down stock, adjustable, and the adjustable lower control arm mounts for coilovers . This is directed specifically at coilovers that mount to the back of the lower control arm brackets.

Find us on Facebook at Redbird Speed LLC or Instagram at @redbirdspeed
Join us if you would like to learn what we have to offer, connect with others, or ask a question about your application.

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In this trailer, The Rear Gear tells a little about the hosts from Redbird Speed. This includes Aaron Clark and Jason "Foz" Fosnaugh's background in the rear end industry. What you can expect from the podcast including technical information, product reviews, interviews, industry trends, and more.  Any questions on housings, axles, differentials or brakes, do not hesitate to reach out to Redbird Speed. Thanks for your support and listening to the podcast. 

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