change gears in the rear and front. I guess I am what you would call your average shade tree mechanic. I have worked on my own trucks most of my life. Also my father in law has been a mechanic for years but is not certified. Anyway If I take my time is this something that your average joe can do? I know the front will be a little harder though. I have never done any gear work before though. Any pointers you guys can give to help me out? It is a 9.75 rear with 3.55ls now but Im going to put in 4.88's.

Thanks,

 

has your father in law ever changed gears before? does he know how to set backlash and have all the right tools to check backlash?

its not too difficult to change them if you have all the tools. although some guys have a hard time getting the front carrier out. you have to notch some of the ring gears to get the pin in both carriers.

the front is actually easier because you have to take the axle out from under the truck.

 

Thanks, the tools that I dont have I will buy. He has setup a couple before but its been a while. But for the price of the labor I can buy 3 sets of gears. . I have everything that I need except a set of calipers which I need a new set anyway. I am gonna give the rear a shot here in the near future. Depending on how that goes I may or maynot do the front. Gotta learn sooner or later so

 

If you don't do the front you won't be able to use your 4wd anymore.

 

the front will be done I just don't know if Im going to do it

 

Little tip. Put a wrench on one of the ring gear bolts, then by hand turn the driveshaft (or pinion) and tap the wrench on the bottom of the case. The carrier will walk itself out.

Or build a simple case spreader