i have a 99 ram 1500 4x4 5.9 gas 3in lift 35in tires.

im trying to figure out a good setup for my truck. i want it to work good off and on road. i want to change out the stock open differentials and maybe the gears. i want to start with the rear first then the front at another time. i do want a locker in the rear i heard dana was good and it would be good on road as well because it wont lock when turning. im new to dodge and off roading so any advise would be awesome.

 

Go for the detroit tru-trac diff. It's clutchless, so, no wear parts, and no friction modifier required. It sends torque to the wheel with grip. Works fine for front axles as well.

With 35 inch tires, you would do well with 4.56 gears. Do both axles at the same time, or, do not use 4x4 AT ALL until front and rear gears match. Otherwise, it makes expensive noises, and you are without a truck.

Keep in mind, gears/lockers are NOT cheap. Expect to spend a couple thousand for the whole job, especially if you can't do the work yourself. If you haven't done gears before, it is DEFINITELY worthwhile to pay someone else that has. (especially if there is a shop around that specializes in trucks.....) If you can grab a friend that has experience doing gears, that would work too, and save you a bit on labor.

Welcome to DF!