Rear end Gears

[strongman_T]

I own a 2006 GMC Sierra 1500. When I ordered the truck late last year I was unable to get one with a 3:73 gear ratio. The Vortec Max trucks were to be coming out later than I wanted to wait, and could not find a standard ext. cab 4x4 with the ratio I wanted.

 

My question is this: I would like to lower the gear to 3:73 to help improve acceleration and towing power. Should I go and try to find good salvage parts from a late model's rear end or go with a new replacment from Richmond or Strange. I don't want to spend an arm and a leg on the project due to installation charges that will add to the expense.

 

Basically, Has anyone messed with the rear end on their late model Gm's??

 

Thanks-

[srlbotanical]

I take it your in the 342 club right now? In my opinion, jumping down to 373's from 342's is not going to net you the performance your looking for. If you do a gear swap for towing/performance then just go with 410's. And I would go with new gears. your cost is going to be in the install. No sense getting used gears just to have something go bad a year from now.

 

I have owned trucks with both gear ratios and IMHO you would get better bang for the buck by getting a custom tune then by making the small drop from 342 to 373...

 

 

Steve

[95Sierra2500]

You don't state if you have a 4x4 or a 2wd. If it's 2wd, you're in the clear just getting one set of gears. However, if you're a 4x4 you need to replace your front gears too, or you'll have issues w/that.