Novice. Differential Swap, start from the beginning...

[wilkin250r]

Ok, I did what I was supposed to do, I started with the search button, and I came up with a few brand names such as Eaton or Powertrax, and terms I'm not familiar with. Most of the threads started getting to technical for my level of knowledge, so I need to start at the beginning.

I have a 1993 Sport 4x4, manual transmission. I am toying with the idea of changing my gear ratio from my stock 3.27 to probably 4.10 to aid in towing, and prolong tranny life if/when I lift it and get bigger tires.

While I am doing it, I may as well swap to a limited-slip rather than my current open differential.

Do I need to swap the entire rear axle to get limited slip, or can this be done with just gears when I get them changed?

I'm not too concerned about the front LS or open, just so long as I get the gear ratio to match.

What are my options? Brands? Projected costs? Websites with information will be highly appreciated. Also, last I checked, I was quoted about $1600 to change the gear ratio on both front and back, does this sound right to you?

 

[Alec]

Labor per axle is usually anywhere from 200-400. Then add parts and you reach that ballpark.

If you mostly drive on the street I'd get a good LS unit such as the Eaton. I had one and loved it. If you want to get a bit more aggressive, go to a powertrax, or selectable locker. Top of the line is the Eaton E-locker. selectable electronically, LS when off.

Yukon and Richmond are good gears, do not sacrifice a few bucks for quality.

I bought all my diff parts through Randy's Ring and Pinion.

And no, changing/pulling axleshafts more than a few inches is not involved.

 

[wilkin250r]

Does Randy's Ring and Pinion have a website?

 

[Alec]

www.ring-pinion.com