I have started rebuilding my '94 2500 piece by piece and my next project is probably going to be my axles. I plan to make the swap to manual hubs (90s Ford conversion) and am thinking of upgrading my gears (currently 3.55s) and axle shafts in the process. I don't plan to lift it any higher (currently 2") and I plan to stay with 285/75-16s. I rarely go off roading and specifically don't go mud bogging or rock climbing with this truck. I use it for mild off roading, trail driving and daily driving.

Question #1
If I go with 4.10s should I be looking for limited slip or what? Like I said I don't do extreme stuff so I don't need anything crazy.

Question #2
Is it worth my money to go beyond OEM strength? I believe in upgrading whenever I replace anything but again I don't need race quality.

 

I think the 4.10's would get with that tire. I don't think anybody make upgraded shafts for the front. Also being a 94 it isn't a Dana 44 front is it? If it's a 60 and you break a shaft on those 33's you are doing something the truck shouldn't be doing lol.

 

If its a light duty 3/4 ton, then, its a dana 44. If he has the 8800 pound weight rating, will be d60s.

If you only do light off-roading, a locker may be an expense that won't really do you that much good. Getting a lock right, or 'lunch box locker', that just replaces your spiders may not be a bad plan. (dramatically increases off-road capability.)

4.10's would go well with that tire size.

Doing the front hub conversion will by default give you some stronger parts up front. However, if that is a D60 already, I don't think strength is really going to be a concern given your stated usage. The D60's are pretty stout to begin with.

 

They are D60 front and rear. As far as replacing the shafts, I am just picky when I tear something apart. I would rather replace it all while I'm in there the first time. I'm building this truck to last me for a while. I've struck a compromise with "Household 06" that I will not get a motorcycle but in trade I can still parachute and work on this truck. Therefore I am building it how I would order it.

So based upon feedback here and what I've read elsewhere 4.10s are fine for my truck.

What do I really need to look for in terms of the gear brands and carrier? I don't need a locker based upon my application, however, I would like to upgrade if it's worth it.

 

where are you all getting these gears from? i want to start pricing them out myself

 

I'm wondering the same thing about who to purchase them from. 4Wheelparts.com is A place to get them but if there are better places to shop I'm all ears. I've had good luck with them in the past but I know there are other companies out there.

 

Randy's Ring and Pinion is a reputable source. Prices are reasonable, parts are good quality. (I think they sell Yukon gears....)

 

Randy's Ring and Pinion +1

 

I'm ordering mine from completeoffroad.com. My 4.88's with install kits for my 1/2 ton are 556.

 

Did you get thick gears for the front? Or a new carrier?