How Much Power Can A 3.4 Rearend Handle?
 

My aunt has a '95 3.4l Camaro that I might buy and I'm curious just how much power it's T5 transmission and rearend can handle. I know it's stock numbers are 160 hp and 200 ft-lbs torque.

So if I put a carbed 5.0, 5.3, or 5.7 at 225-260 hp could it's drivetrain handle that power? The reason I ask is because I already have a Z/28 so I'd just want a fun little quick car that's got more pep than the 160 horse 3.4l.

Re: How Much Power Can A 3.4 Rearend Handle?
 

The rear axle assembly (but not the rear axle ratio) is the same for all 4th Gens - 7.625" 10-bolt. Same rear they used in the 97 Z28 in your signature, and 300+ HP SS's, Firehawks, LS1. 260 HP is no problem. They do become fragile if you run sticky tire's on a well-prepped track, with high RPM clutch dumps. The 3.4L did not come standard with the G80 limited slip rear or disc brakes.

T5 is the problem. GM would not use them with the 350ci L98 engines because of the L98's high torque (245 HP/330 lb-ft). They only used it with the 305ci LB9 (190-235 HP/275-300 lb-ft). Basic T5 is rated 265 lb-ft, World Class is 300 lb-ft. Not sure which one they used w/ the 3.4L.

Re: How Much Power Can A 3.4 Rearend Handle?
 

Thanks for the answer. So I guess I'd try a 305 with like 225 hp and 265 ft-lbs.

One more question about the rear end. I always heard that the V6 4th gen fbodys had open differentials whereas my Z28 has limited slip. Hence the one wheel burnouts for the V6 and two wheeled for the v8 cars. Is this true? Or are they the same rearends with just a different traction system?

Re: How Much Power Can A 3.4 Rearend Handle?
 

Answered that above:

While not "standard equipment", might have been available as an extra cost option. Check the service parts tag in the glove box or end of driver's door for RPO code "G80” which indicates the limited slip differential, same unit that was standard equipment in your V8. If there's no G80 on the tag it's an open diff.

The service parts tag will also indicate the rear axle gear ratio:

GU2 = 2.73
GU3 = 3.08 (most likely w/ the V6)
GU5 = 3.23
GU6 = 3.42

Re: How Much Power Can A 3.4 Rearend Handle?
 

Thanks again, I'll check the glove box sometime. I guess I overlooked that quote on your original reply.