does any one know of iinfo on changing your own gears? I have 4.10 want to go 3.73 or so. Want to learn to do it myself

 

It's not that hard, but it's not that easy. You have to adjust the pinion lash and all. If I'm correct, the only other gear ratio available is a 3.55/3.54.

 

Please be advised that your cost will be significant due to the fact that your carriers will not accept a lower (numerically) gear, and will have to be changed also. <br>This is an operation best left to professionals. Many special/heavy duty tools are necessary to do the job right, and attain longevity. This is not for everyone. <br>I am good enough to set up gears in my toys, but would get help to set up my truck. <br>Please consider this carefully.

 

I was wanting to go from 3.54 to 3.73. Cost was about $450 to $550 for each differential (ring and pinion) plus labor. Too much money for little change.

 

It's best left to a professional because they can set them up right, the first time. Gears set up wrong will not last long and possibly take something else out with them when they fail. If you want to do it yourself, you should go to a shop and watch what's involved. I did and that's what made me not want to change my own gears. There is alot of labor charge but it's worth it if you get somebody who knows what they're doing.

 

yeah i reck'n u all are right, but i would like to learn how to do it right anyway. not many gear shops around here. My rears should be dana 70???? saw 3.50 in summit catolog for $2-300. anyone have a extra or salvaged rear for sale?

 

The only option is for 3.54. If you want to have 3.73 or there abouts, switch to a taller tire. On my truck 215/85/16 was stock and when I switched to 255/85/16, my ratio went from 4.10 to about 3.79. That is something to consider. It wasn't cheap, but it would be cheaper in the long run. I had to have new tires so I got the best of both worlds.

 

Mostwanted, a 97 3500 like yours will have the Dana 80.<br>John