How wide is a 7.5 GM rear end?
The width of a GM 7.5-inch rear axle is not standardized across all vehicles. It varies by model, year, brake setup, and wheel configuration. In general, you can expect hub-to-hub widths in the mid-50s to low-60s inches, with overall widths including brakes typically in the high-50s to low-60s inches. For an exact measurement, you should check the specific axle on your vehicle or measure it directly.
Why width varies
The 7.5-inch rear axle was used across several GM platforms (A-body, X-body, and others) over multiple generations. Different brake types (drum vs. disc), drum diameters, and wheel-offset choices change the distance between the wheel hubs and the end of the housing. Because of these variations, there is no single universal width for all 7.5 GM rear ends.
How to measure your 7.5" rear end
To determine the exact width of your axle, measure directly on the vehicle or on a removed assembly. Use a straight edge and tape measure to capture the distances described below. Accurate measurement is essential if you are fitting aftermarket parts, wheels, or a different brake setup.
Typical widths in practice
There is no single fixed number for all 7.5" GM rear ends. The following figures are approximate ranges observed across common configurations. The exact dimension for your axle will depend on year, model, and brake setup.
- Hub-to-hub width (distance between the two wheel mounting faces): commonly ranges from roughly 54 to 60 inches, depending on the specific housing and brake arrangement. Disc brake versions and later configurations often trend toward the higher end of this range.
- Overall width (end-to-end width including brakes and flange areas): typically around 58 to 62 inches, varying with drum size, brake flanges, and wheel offset.
Note: These ranges are intended as practical guidelines. For restoration, modification, or performance fitting, measure your exact axle or refer to factory service data for your vehicle’s build date and option package to obtain the precise width.
Measurement tips for accuracy
- When the car is on a level surface, chock the wheels and measure with the suspension in its normal ride height.
- For hub-to-hub width, measure from the flat face of one wheel hub (or the mounting surface) directly to the corresponding face on the opposite side.
- For overall width, measure from the outermost edge of one brake drum or flange to the outermost edge on the opposite side.
- If you cannot access the axle easily, consult factory diagrams or a parts dealer database using the vehicle’s VIN and axle code to confirm the exact width.
Summary
In short, a 7.5 GM rear end does not have a single universal width. Expect hub-to-hub dimensions roughly in the mid-50s to around 60 inches and overall widths in the high-50s to low-60s inches, with real numbers varying by model-year, brakes, and wheel choice. The most reliable approach is to measure the specific axle or consult the vehicle’s factory specifications to ensure an accurate fit for wheels, tires, or accessories.
How wide is the rear end of a 80 Camaro?
The 80 Camaro rear end is 60.875 or 61 inches wms to wms depending on who's tape measure you use.
How wide is a 7.5 rear end?
The 1983 to 1992 Ranger 7.5 is about 56.50 Inches wide (this is about only 1 inch wider than the stock 7 1/4 inch) the 1993 to 2009 Rangers are about 58.50 inches wide. These 7.5 were used in the V6 Mustang too but some what wider in the fox Chassis Cars.
What is the difference between 7.5 and 8.8 rear ends?
7.5” vs 8.8” Rear Ends
When measuring from the top left bolt to the bottom right bolt, the 8.8” rear end will measure 11” from bolt to bolt. The 7.5” rear end is also flat on top and bottom. However, the visual difference comes in where it is rounded on the right and left and, like the 8.8” rear, has ten bolts.
How can you tell the difference between a GM 7.5 and 8.5 rear end?
The 8.5 rearend will have a round cover, and part of the cover will extend rearward to make room for the ring gear. You will also notice the large, flat, cast-in protrusions at the five and seven o'clock positions. These protrusions are larger than those on the 7.5 rearend.
