The body is a 1966 mustang.  However, the engine and transmission have been replaced.  I think the rear end is original.  Money is an object so I'm looking for a good bang for my buck.  The engine intake manifold # is c90e-8425-e. The engine is a 351W.  The transmission is a FMX the number on it is PHB L3.  The rear end # is 2.806gc930.  I think the rear end needs to be replaced with a 9" and better gearing.  This is where I need your help.  I plan on rebuilding the engine and the transmission.  I'm at a loss as to what I should use for the rear end.  Is the current 8" 2.80 ok?

I building this just for cruising around.  I would like it to have a little punch when the pedal is pushed.

Thanks,  

ps. I have been looking at a lot of forums on mustang rebuilds and this one is the best by far.  

You need to decided exactly how your going to use the car.  The 351w with an 8" rear will give you a lil zip, a good exhaust will add to the "punch" just cruising around.  It is also much better on gas then say 4.11 ratio 31 spline 9"rear.  That would be great for 0 to 60 times or ET's at the track.  However not necessary, and not cost effective.  The decision is entirely yours.  

I will be just cruising around.  I'm not interested in doing any time at the track.  So, what you are saying is what I have is fine.  I should just rebuild it with every thing else I'm planning on rebuilding.  

its probably the most cost effective way to go when money is an issue.  Its a reliable rear end for easy comutes, and high way driving.  

I've read in other forums that 8in. rear ends can reliably handle up to 350HP.  

I had a built 351 windsor that I had wth a four speed and an 8 inch 2.8 rearend. It didnt need a lower gear because it had so much torque. You could burn off the tires easy. I never did any harm to that rearend and believe me I tried. I think the 8 inch is under rated. I would stick with it for awhile.  

Luvmy66 - What is your plan for how your going to do this build?  

I'm still in the demolition stage.  I slowly taking things apart and discovering things that need to be replaced or fixed.  I'm building my need immediately and can wait list based on what I find.
The car is in good shape on rust damage.  So far all I have found is floor pans and engine compartment inner fender rust that needs replaced.
The wiring is another matter.  I know for sure I have to replace all the wiring.  One of the previous owners was a complete moron with wiring.  I traced one wire from the coil to the fire wall it was spliced 3 times with different gauges of wire and black tape in one spot and wire nuts in another.  I'm not even going to try and figure out what he did under the dash.

I want to keep the rear end and tranny just rebuild them.   I also want to rebuild the engine and possibly put some performance parts in to boost the HP a bit.  I looking to get the car running and the add upgrades as the budget allows.  I would love to go all out but I didn't win the lottery last night.  

was the car running originally? you may not need a rebuild on the tranny or rear end.  Or do you know if they were locked up?   They might be able to be put on the "can wait" list.  

Car was not running.  Engine would turn over but no spark that is when I started chasing wires and gave up.  I could still be checking them.  I have found so many wires cut and disconnected while disassembling I can't believe it.  I'm so glad there are companies that make full replacement wiring kits.  

I could not imagine doing this 20 years ago without the help of the internet and forums like this one.

The reason I want to do the rebuilds is not knowing the state of components now.  The previous owner drove it once 8 years ago and then put it on jack stands and never touched it.