I want to go from 273's to 373's but dont want to pay $300 plus for labor. Is this something I can do myself? I can do the work I am just concerned about the gear install. Getting the ring and pinnion lined up right.

 

if you are questioning yourself, then you should probably have someone else do it. There are a lot of measurements, and a lot of extra tools needed for a ring and pinion. If you don't have a good general idea, take it to a shop.

 

anyone with mechanical ability can replace a ring and pinion,,,, but it will not be done correctly, there are special tools, bearing splitter's, press, dial indicators, inch # torque dial, torque wrench, here are some things to consider:

if you know how to do these items then go fo it:

1. must know how to replace bearings using a bearing splitter and press
2. must know how to set pinion bearing pre-load to 15-20 inch#'s
3. must know how to set pinion depth(i use a pinion depth tool)
4. must know how to set case bearing pre-load and keep backlash in spec
5. must know how to set ring gear backlash to .005"-.008"
6. must know how to get a good gear pattern and know how to read the pattern to make changes in the pinion depth and backlash

7. must be willing to start all over again if the pinion depth needs to be changed to get a better pattern

sorry to seem negative but i have been doing ring and pinion installs for 16 years now and have fixed many peoples messes after they tried to do it themselves,

jay

 

I just finished doing this myself for the first time about a week ago. Mine turned out okay, but there is a SLIGHT howl between 40 and 50 mph. I had a shop change the carrier and pinion bearings out since I didn't have the tools for it. As stated, there are several specialty tools needed, and it takes a lot of patience. I did it mainly because I wanted to learn, and saving a few bucks was nice too. I'm satisfied with how it turned out.

 

How about if I get one of those how to videos?

 

In the rear end FAQ at the top of the page, there is a very detailed gear installation guide:

http://www.keliente.com/gears.htm

... and if a GIRL can do it, any GUY should be able to as well!!!

I've setup a couple of my own now, and helped my Dad a few times as well, so I'm quite comfortable with the process now. Having (and knowing how to use ) the tools (such as the dial indicator, bearing puller, vernier calipers, etc.,) is the biggest part of the job. The basic "mechanics" of it are all the "easy" part.

Oh, and like Jay said: ...very true! Have patience!

 

Thanks for the walkthrough capn pete. I will be attempting this myself dont look to bad.