Been debating wheter to change my own gears or pay to have it done. Going from 3:08 to 3:73. I had a vendor picked out and saw a post by Max Mitchell recommending Reider Racing. I gave them a call and talked to Tim. Their prices were good and sounded like they could answer any questions that might arise. I felt better dealing with an outfit that specialized on gears rather than a general parts outlet. So the gears are on order. I'm of about average or a little higher mech. aptitude, my buddy thats going to help me is well above average on the mechanic aptitude scale, but neither one of us has ever opened up a differential. Anything we should be aware of? Any tricks of the trade? Any suggestions are appreciated. I have a 4.6l, 2001 Scab open rear end. TIA
J.J.

 

if you dont know how to shim them right you can screw things up pretty bad

 

order some extra crush sleaves so if you over torque the sleave you can pull it out and replace it and not have to wait while one gets shipped to you.
don't put in the crush sleave or the front seal in the first time you torque the pinion, the shims might need to be adjusted and when adjusted correct then put the seal and shim in for the final torque, oil the pinion nut when putting it on and off until the very last torque, then use locktight.
tools,bearing pullers and something to connect to the pinion/yoke to hold it while torqueing the crush sleaves, use a long breaker bar and move it very slowly and a little bit and check drag and repeat,