Was just wondering if anyone that has done gear swaps has any tips/pointers before I under take this job. Part numbers for any seals or other items needed would be greatly appreciated also. For those wondering the plan is to put the 4.88s in my soon to be DD in my current Red Truck, and put the Red trucks 4.62s in the soon to be DD. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

The logical way to do it would just swap carriers. If so shouldnt require much but some silicone. Been a while since I played with a front differential tho.

just double check all your measurements. when you`ve got it together,check the pinion gear alignment with ring gear by using lithum grease.(if ya didnt know that already)grease trail should be in the center of the ring gear. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/notooth.gif" alt="" />

So far you shopping list looks like prussian blue and some silicone. Not bad you should be able to get it from NAPA no prob.

i was tring to remember the name of that blue stuff. good call. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

U are just going to swap the 3rd members correct?

Eli. I would just swap the whole front diff and the whole rear axle. No need to remove the carriers. If the gears run fine in the 4.88 truck then...if it ain't broke... Don't bother about checking gear contact patterns. I wouldn't open that potential can of worms. The only reason I disassembled the carrier on my locking axle was because the actuator was leaking. Otherwise, I would have happily thrown the whole thing on as is.

The front diff swap is worst than the rear axle. Rear axles aren't held on by much <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/scared.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" /> Overall, this way will cost you less and will be less hassle. Borrow the big torque wrench from Autozone.

I would change the gear after after the swap. You are welcome to borrow my oil hand pumps (1 qrt or 4 qrt).

You want to get this done before Hallowharrie? Get those wrenches out man! I wish I had time to help you out <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

swap the whole front axle and the rear thirds I bet with a friend and some tools and a jack you could be done in a day

That would be the easiest way if I am not mistaken.



The thought had crossed my mind, it would be cool to have the 4.88s in for my 2nd yearly Daniel run. Every little bit helps.

Right now I get off work Monday 8pm, and Tuesday 9pm, then Wednesday and Thursday 5pm. The brown truck is supposed to be here from Raleigh tomorrow. Depends on if I can get it towed home Wed or Thurs then swap the gears Friday. Because I am going to Uwharrie with Jason and a few others Saturday, and I work Sunday. Then next weekend is the trip. It will be close that is all I do know. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

Personally, I think it's a wash. I would prefer to roll the full rear axle out and then the new one in on wheels than man handle a dirty great 3rd while lying under your truck. Swapping the 3rds does give you the opportunity the replace axle shaft seals and repack the bearings. If you're not bothered about that I honestly don't think it's worth the trouble. Especially since you can replace the seals etc any time without removing the 3rd.

Also, don't forget the front has no 3rd so you will need to swap the whole diff.

Looks like you are busy Eli. If it were me I'd wait until after the 'big' trip. You don't want to find that you need to replace stuff half way through, run out of time and have a truck stuck on jack stands.

Up to you though ol'bean. Sounds like fun <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />