10-bolt rear questions (non-Buick)

[shiftless]

Hi, I came here because I believe you guys would know the 10-bolt 8.5" rear better than most.

I've got an 84 Silverado with this rear, open carrier. I'm planning on installing a mildly built Cadillac 472 motor into my truck, putting out around 550-600ft-lbs and 400HP. It's going to be a street/strip machine that is mostly driven on the street, but I'll be making some 1/4 mile passes on slicks. No transbrake, no nitrous, just a lead foot. I don't know the truck's weight but I'm guessing around 4000lbs. I'd like to get into the 12s.

From reading the archives here I see that this is a strong rear end and will probably survive what I'm planning, with proper preparation. It looks like I need some Moser 30-spline axles, an Eaton posi unit, and a T/A girdle. I was also eyeing the Powertrax No-Slip locker instead of the posi. Is that unit any good? Should I keep my stock gears? What else would you recommend for my application, and do you think it'll hold up? Thanks for your input.

 

[GNVAIR]

The 8.5 is a good rear.
Yes, you should replace the stock carrier with a good after market Eaton. I never had much luck with Auburns or Powertrax.
Your truck may already have 30 spline axle shafts in it since the trucks were the first to use them.
If you already have the correct ring and pinion set in the truck, then I would leave it alone as the GM sets are probably the best you can get.