Need Differential Opinions Please

Draenor

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I'd stick with the same gear ratio or go lower.


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dietz4ibanez

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MoonSwine

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Thanks All!! I could tell by reading the forum that you guys would know way more about this than I do. I called a dealer with my VIN and they told me I had the following in my truck:

1. 8.6" ring gear
2. 3.42 gears
3. Posi trac
4. Active Brake JL4
3. JF3 (??)

So, I could be wrong about the HD. Maybe it's just a normal 1500. Too many options. :D

I'm going to try to stick with the 3.42 since it does what I need it to do. The estimates I have so far to fix are pretty painful. One local used rear end for $1,950 then another 300 - 400 to put it on the truck. Dealer wants $2,000 for a new one without the axles.

I think I've located a used one from New York that's identical to mine that I could get shipped here for around $1,100. I'm going to try that route. I don't have a lot of time since that truck is my only truck. :fume:

I'll let you guys know how it turns out.
 

dietz4ibanez

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I've order from Yukongear.com when I added a 14 bolt rear end to my 99 gmt400 half ton.
 

Draenor

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How much are you willing to spend? For $1100 you can get the rear end rebuilt , that should include quality parts and labor.


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MoonSwine

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Hey Draenor,

Unfortunately, I got myself into a pickle on this one. I was looking for someone locally to rebuild mine but didn't find anyone. Knowing what I know now, $1100 would be reasonable to get it rebuilt.

I ended up locating a used one for $1050 shipped, so I went that route. The used one has all the options my current one has except the locking diff. I'll just have to live without that desirable feature......

If I had a little more time, I think I would have found someone within a few hours drive and had it rebuilt. I would have been more comfortable taking that route, but my lack of knowledge on local repair shops and the need to get my truck running ASAP forced me to go the used route.

The local dealer told me the ring gear and pinion was going to cost me $800. I know I could have found them cheaper, but didn't take the time to research that.

I think this is going to be one of those expensive lessons you learn in life. The next time I hear a roar coming from somewhere in the rear of the truck, I'll see if I can open the diff and take a look. I've always gone with the strategy of "If you can't find the problem, drive it until it breaks". That was the wrong decision this time. :facepalm:
 

Draenor

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That's cool, do what you need to do. I know the feeling when your in a bind.

Just make sure you change the gear oil. One you can inspect the rear and two the fluids will be fresh. Should be an easy swap over.


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Zembonez

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I have a set of 3.73 gears and the G80 locker I'd sell cheap. Virtually new!
 

MoonSwine

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I may be interested in the 3.73 gears and G80. Can I take those gears and the G80 and purchase a rebuild kit to repair my broken differential? Can I put the G80 in the diff I purchased without one?

I'm watching youtube videos and doing some Internet research, but still don't have a full understanding of what you can and can't do with gears and diff locks.

I'll be traveling from Texarkana to Dallas next week. If you're in that area, I could probably run by and pick them up.
 

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