Rear axle interchange questions

[Spktyr]

Having read about the issues with the rear axle seals going with age or with other causes, it seems to me like I should get a rear axle to rebuild ahead of time (they are very cheap around here) and swap in to minimize downtime. So, here's the questions:

1. What years of 3rd gen rear axles can I directly swap in and use in my 2000?

2. Are there any gear ratio differences between years and models?

3. 4x4 3rd gens have been more plentiful in the local yards than 2WD. Can I use a 4x4 rear axle in my 2WD or do I need to find a 2WD donor?

Thanks.

 

[Spktyr]

Er, anyone?

 

[thegipper]

1. I believe any year axle will work (96-92) assuming it doesn't have a rear locker. If it does, you can still make it work and you'll have a rear locking diff.

2. There are several different gear ratios with the most common being 4.10. The only way to be certain is to do a spin test though as there is no magic code or anything that will tell you what ratio it is for sure.

3. I'm also pretty sure it doesn't matter if the truck is 4x4 or not, I believe the rear axle assemblies are all the same.

 

[Lindenwood]

1. I believe any year axle will work (96-92) assuming it doesn't have a rear locker. If it does, you can still make it work and you'll have a rear locking diff.

2. There are several different gear ratios with the most common being 4.10. The only way to be certain is to do a spin test though as there is no magic code or anything that will tell you what ratio it is for sure.

3. I'm also pretty sure it doesn't matter if the truck is 4x4 or not, I believe the rear axle assemblies are all the same.

Good info!

 

[zoombyu86]

There is a code on the door jamb, however, I don't recall which it is (dealt with it while searching for a front diff for my e-locker retrofit) and it was accurate. No better way to be sure than the spin test.

 

[T4R2014]

1. I believe any year axle will work (96-92) assuming it doesn't have a rear locker. If it does, you can still make it work and you'll have a rear locking diff.

2. There are several different gear ratios with the most common being 4.10. The only way to be certain is to do a spin test though as there is no magic code or anything that will tell you what ratio it is for sure.

3. I'm also pretty sure it doesn't matter if the truck is 4x4 or not, I believe the rear axle assemblies are all the same.

4x4 and 4x2 does not matter. Brake lines are slightly different for 01-02 but can work. For reference, I installed a 2002 Sport Edition 2WD axle in my 1998 Limited 4x4 with no modification.

 

[Mark_BC]

Gear ratio isn't super important with 2WD since the front wheels aren't driven. But it will affect your speed if you change ratio.