gearing question

[jgriffin]

Took my 97 sport to the shop today for clunking in the transfercase and they want over a thousand dollars for a new transfercase. I was wondering if there is any aftermarket transfercase that I could go with that may be less expensive and probably better built than the factory one. Also I was wondering if I change gears in the back do I also have to change them up front, because now would be a good time to do it.

 

[donkey boy]

Originally posted by jgriffin
... Also I was wondering if I change gears in the back do I also have to change them up front...

If you want to change the gearing ratio, absolutely, you will need to change both. If you stay with the same ratio and you just want to change worn-out parts, it's not necessary, but smart to do it.

 

[BlueDogBandit]

Change them both

Not sure one the transfer case, but I do know this: If you change the rear gearing, you must change the front. If not, your tire will be spinnging at two different speeds, and that could be ugly.

 

[jgriffin]

I was pretty sure they both had to be changed. Does anyone know where I could get new gears and/or a new transfer case?

 

[Maniak]

Another option (for your xfer case) is an Atlas II xfer case. It isn't a cheap option but it will fix your xfer case AND give you lower low range gears.. If you have an auto tranny you can get 3.8:1... If you have a manual you can get 4.3:1. Either one is better than the 2.48:1 you have now.

If you don't need to change your gears for highway driving, but want them change for wheeling this would be about the same cost as the new xfer case and gears..

Gears cost about $1300 (front/rear) with no locker.. If you want a locker add the cost of the locker (should be no labor if they are already doing the gears)..

Just another direction to think about..

 

[Ray Lobato]

jgriffin,
I would agree with Maniack. You could go with a Atlas II transfer case. they are not cheap, but will definately give you some low end for wheeling, and they are bullet proof. The Atlas II also comes in a 3.2:1 ratio, if you don't want to go real low. The cost is around $2300.00. I will tell you that you will not have control-Trak any more and your 4x4 lights won't work. It is a mechanical transfercase. You will also have to get a adaptor to fit your speedometer gear, and your drive lines will probably have to be changed. I had to replace my front drive line. I just got a Atlas II with the 3.8:1 ratio installed in my 97XLT, so I do have my old transfercase out and at the shop waiting for me to bring it home. There is nothing wrong with it, I just wanted to have lower ratio for 4wheeling. If you are interested in my old transfercase, make me an offer.