489 carrier and other 8.75 questions

[madtabula]

I pulled the rear end out of my 73 challenger and found its a 741.  After I pulled the carrier off I found this on the ring gear:

2643118-2.94  M 277  10 4 66 DM9 :thumbs:

I am thinkin this means its a 2.94 gear ratio?  What I am wanting to know from the experts is what would be the best carrier and gear ratio for a street machine that I would like to have decent top end speed but not be a slug at the green light.  I was thinkin 3.55 in a 489 with maybe a sure grip. 

who makes a good after market carrier that would fit in place of a 741 oir 489... basically im looking for a drop in solution where I dont have to mic anything out... or do I still have to.

What tools are needed for the axel bearings for removal and installation and where might I find them at a decent price.  Are the generally the same for most vehicles?

[Chryco Psycho]

I agree with the 489 or 742 & 3.55 gears they are a great conbo , Places like Randys Ring & pinion can sell you a complete unit
yours is a 2.94 ratio diff
 Mopar has the alum carrier if you want an aftermarket unit
 to remove the axles you just need a 9/16 socket , if you want to replace the brgs you will need a press , just pay someone to do it 

[OUTLAW]

I agree with CP except I'd recommend 3:91 gear ratio and randy's is the place to get the setup from ....yep

[Street_Challenged73]

I'd have to say 3.55 would be good gears for all around usage.  3.91's will run awefully high if you do a lot of higher speed cruising. :thumbs:

[madtabula]

Thanks everyone,

I've got a 8.75 489 posi (auburn) 3rd member comming my way  3.55 from ring and pinion thanks for the advice. :thumbs: :guitar: :guitar:

[Killer_Mopar]

If your going to go aftermarket and cant decide between 3.55 and 3.91s, then just split the difference. Although not a mopar gear,  3.73s are available and would be good gear for highway and "stoplight-to-stoplight" driving. Whenever I get my rear rebuilt, that is the gear im going with, just something to think about.