1997 K1500 4x4 differential regearing

[Bstout96]

I have a 1997 k1500 with 313,000 miles on it. New motor with only 5,000 and a fairly new trans with roughly 60,000 miles but feels very sluggish after putting 35x14.50 tires on it. Pretty sure the 3.42 gears are to blame. What are my options in regearing? Would it be better to buy a whole differential or just swap in gears?

[muddkatt]

How many miles are on the current differentials without a rebuild?

[Bstout96]

Differentials are stock. All original miles

 

[muddkatt]

They are due a good rebuild at that mileage. 3.73's would be ok, 4.10's would be better if you don't do a lot of interstate driving.  I am assuming you have the 700R4 or 4L60 transmission.

[Bstout96]

Yes I have 4L60e. Only thing is I drive it to the beach a few times in the summer. Roughly 150 miles away. Daily commute consists of 10-12 miles of highway. 

[muddkatt]

I would put the 4.10 gears in it.

[grampadirt]

Think I would rebuild what you have and put 4:10s in 'em,maybe throw a True-Trac in the rear while you're in there.

[Bstout96]

Anyone have any suggestions on where to get the gears?

[Logan Lanfear]

Either a junkyard truck or ordered online.  I would search junkyards