GM 12 bolt questions

[67rstbkt]

I just picked up a GM 12 Bolt I hope that I can get to work in my firebird. It appears to be the Truck version; I base this on the shape of the Cover. It is not round like the car version. It's five lug and 57 inches from backing plate to backing plate compared to the 54.5 stock 10 bolt. Here are my questions:
Will I have a difficult time getting parts?
Are they the same as the car version?
I'm guessing that I have to narrow it to accomadate the mini-tub kit and wheels, Am I right?
Is there a draw back to putting this thing under a first-gen?
I'm planning on 500-600 hp and possibly some nitrous.
Any comments/help would be greatly appreciated.

[67rstbkt]

But, will it work?

[awr68]

My question for you is how much money will you have into this making it work in your car?

I think Chris was saying that he has used them and broke them, and that he wouldn't us it in your application....and there's always resale to consider.

[67rstbkt]

Well, I guess that's what I'm trying to find out. I can do the majority of the work myself and I also have access to a really good welder. I know the best way to go is with a pre-assembled custom aftermarket, but this is what I have to work with right now. I can probably get this thing narrowed if I need to without too much of a problem. So, I guess what I was really trying to ask was has anyone else used a truck 12-bolt in their cars and is it basically the same internally (axles,bearings,etc.) as the car version. I do appreciate your opinions, but like I said before, I have this rear in my possesion, and really wanted to try to use it if I can. Thanks for your input

[67rstbkt]

Thanks for the info, I'll post up some pics if I decide to go through with it. I think I'm just gonna stare at it for a little while. I agree with all the points made and appreciate the advice, but I just hate wasting stuff or going out and spending over 2g's if I can make something I allready have in my garage work for me. Thanks again.