Rear axle compatibility

[Drastic396]

I have a 2008 1500 with a 3:42 w/G80, anti drum brakes.  I want to go to 3:73 rears. The diff had the spacer break and cause case and bearing damage. I changed the bearing and re shimmed. I want to replace the entire axle with an 3:73 ratio. I was wonder what years models will be an direct swap. Will some earlier years work??

[Brian715]

I usually use Car-part .com to see what years are compatible.  It's saying only 07-08.  I have a feeling that any 99 up rear end would fit with only minor changes, but that is a hunch.  I do know that in my previous looking for a rear end for my 06, I found that I could even use an earlier than 99 rear end with only minor tweaks. (IE, move spring perches or shock mounts).