Change gearing from 3.42 to 4.10

bowtie_pasta · September 19, 2013

I really want to make this change as I need the power for towing. What is involved to do this? Details will help as I've never done any work like this before. Not sure if it's an easy DIY swap or a shop is preferred, I just want it done right. Thanks!

LongrangeLauber · September 20, 2013

Since its a 4wd you have to get both front and rear differentials regeared. Definitely not a simple DIY deal. I would just take it to a shop and have em do it. I just took my housings in today to get regeared actually. Labor in my area is anywhere between 350-400 an axle plus you need the new gears and maybe even a new locker in the rear. Oh yeah, you need master rebuild kits as well

tyhuck · September 20, 2013

NOT a simple DIY project. like mentioned above, take it to a good shop that has a lot of experience in gear swaps and axel work. My local shop quoted me $1800 (I think) to do a swap on my 05, but it may have been cheaper.

The difference is night and day. I never had the swap done, but I did buy an 07 with 4.10s. The ease of towing with this truck is worlds better on 285s than the 05 was with 265s and 3.42s. If you want more umph, that's definitely the way to go. most people try to throw power adders under the hood to make up the difference, but the gears will also lessen the strain on the transmission. Just be prepared to kiss any fuel efficiency you currently experience goodbye. My 05 would easily get 18 on the highway and 16 mixed, but the 07 with the 4.10s only gets around 14 highway.

LongrangeLauber · September 20, 2013

Should be about that between gears, install kits, and maybe a new locker and obviously installation. Mine will cost around 3k just because I got almost everything new

bowtie_pasta · September 20, 2013

Thanks guys, just the info I was looking for! Sounds like a pricey upgrade which really isn't in the cards right now. Maybe I will call 4 Wheel Parts and see what they say. I'm pretty sure they do this work.

I'm running 275 BFG's right now and have a Diablo tune, K&N FIPK, and soon to be Dynomax cat-back (installing tomorrow). I know the 4.10's would be the icing on the cake, but it would be difficult to justify the cost right now.

Again your responses are much appreciated rdnckhntr94 and Z71 AST!

Chris · September 20, 2013

4 wheel parts will want about $700 an axle depending on what gears you choose if you buy the ring and pinion from them

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bowtie_pasta · September 26, 2013

Thanks. Spoke to 4 wheel parts today. They quoted $900 per axle, plus recommended changing the limited slip carrier in the rear to prevent future problems adding another $400 - $600. That's more $ than I want to spend right now, but I was curious. Maybe I will call some other reputable places just to see.

Chris · September 26, 2013

You have a locker in the rear, not a limited slip

Badass69 · September 26, 2013

Gov bomb.... bin it and install Detroit locker. Done forever.

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LongrangeLauber · September 26, 2013

Either Detroit locker or Yukon's equivilant the Grizzly locker. Installing my new differential in my truck this weekend. Will let you know how it performs when I start driving it