The 8 3/4 is pretty Stout, it's got a spool, moser axles, not sure on the gear, but I don't think it's a pro gear (I may be wrong but I don't think they make one for an 8 3/4). It's a stock case and thirdmember, and it's not backbraced. I don't like the idea of being on borrowed time, so I might just wait a footbrake race for a while longer until I can swap the rear for a Dana or a 9". Where might I find a Dana cheaper than moser & strange.