If I need to replace my gear (I'm staying with the factory 2.73), Is an aftermarket really going to be stronger then the factory's oem replacement? Like a Richmond for example.

 

I believe the Motive gears are popular replacements because they were one of the GM OEM suppliers. Any genuine GM part is going to be a lot more expensive than a good quality aftermarket part, even with the available online GM parts discounts.

 

Well.....that doesn't really answer the question.
Your right GM replacement is more, but is it more because its better? I don't mind paying more if its because its better as far as quality and fitment.
Thanks for the reply.

 

From what I've heard, GM gears are more because they have tighter tolerances than other manufacturers, which is also why they are so quiet. But then I've heard others have absolutely no noise with properly set up Motive gears.

 

If Motives are the same as the OEM gears, then aftermarket would not necessarily be better. But aftermarket would cost less.

 

I called the folks at http://agearworks.com/ they sell/install Motive and or OEM which is AAM and they said motive are a lot more noisy then the factory gears because the tolerances are not as tight and they recommended going with the oem.

Thank you.

 

Don't know why you would stay with the 2.73 but I bet there are 1000's out there that would give them to you for free because they all upgraded to the lower gears. If someone in you area has them that would save on S&H. Ebay has them all the time for $20-$30 and are used but in good condition.

 

I'm staying with 2.73's cause i like to be able to drive on the highway for an hour @ 100 or better without blowing my engine