Hi, I am considering changing the rear gear ratio of my differential. I have never done this before. I have accomplished many other mechanical repairs myself but never had a chance to take apart my rear differental. I would like to change from 3.08 to 3.55 gears. Can this be safely done by me? Is it complex? Thanks Guys!

I was going to do mine, but by the time I figured out all the special tools I would need, as well as a shim assortment, crush collar, and everything else, it was a lot cheaper to have this guy do it. http://corvetteperfection.com/corvetteperfection001.htm

I don't find it that difficult, BUT I'm a ASE Master Tech, and have done many rear ends. It does take a lot of precise measurement and set up. Do it wrong and you will trash everything. It does require special measurement tools, and checking contact patterns. I highly recommend you have someone do it for you.

Ken Styer

I have to agree with Steve and Ken.
By the time you get everything needed and try to set it up properly, you are better off finding someone reputable to do the ring and pinion change for you. You can save yourself some money by dropping the center section out of the car yourself then reinstall it after the gears are changed. I myself have played around with differentials, but when it comes to changing gears sets and setting it up, I take it to someone I trust.
And thats my .02 cents
Sarge

Thanks guys, I'll just have to bite the bullet and farm it out. I dont like the idea of buying special tools for just one gear change and I don't know what I would be doing. Should I have them rebuild the whole unit also? It has over 100,000 miles on it and makes a little noise.

|UPDATED|12/24/2003 1:57:31 PM (AZT)|/UPDATED|

I would have the whole thing rebuilt, it won't get any easier and you will be second guessing yourself if you don't. Joe

Full rebuild is the way to go. You are most of the way there already, just by doing the gears.

Ken Styer

If you can pull out the diff yourself just buy a rebuilt
unit from one of the Vette parts suppliers and get a warrantee too. Spend the $100 bucks and get a heavy duty rear end cover too!
Steve