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replacing 3.55 with 4.56 gears

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Old Apr 17, 2008 | 08:39 AM
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Default replacing 3.55 with 4.56 gears

I am going to replace my stock 3.55 gears with 4.56 gears this weekend. This is my first gear install, I was wondering how hard it will be.I have all the tools necessary I think so any help would be appreciated.

Thanks.
 
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Old Apr 17, 2008 | 12:33 PM
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Default RE: replacing 3.55 with 4.56 gears

It could be a nightmare. I've had guys that have done gear swaps tell me they won't touch one in a Dodge. Do a little homework first, search on here and other sources. There are many horror stories about bad gear installs and the consequences. Most of these are from installs done by mechanics. Now I know the fronts on the IFS trucks are a lot harder than the rear, so if you are a 4x2 it won't be quite as bad, but this is still nothing I think that someone who has never done it tries. I've done all the mods on my truck myself, or at least me and someone else except the gear & LSD install. I was not willing to deal with what could happen if I didn't get it perfect...
 
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Old Apr 17, 2008 | 12:39 PM
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Default RE: replacing 3.55 with 4.56 gears

the best advice would have a mechanic to install for you.
 
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Old Apr 17, 2008 | 12:46 PM
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Default RE: replacing 3.55 with 4.56 gears

I agree with the above. Without dial indicators to set the proper lash and pre load I would pay someone to do it. The settings only have to be off by a few thousanths to ruin a gear set.
 
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Old Apr 17, 2008 | 01:15 PM
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Default RE: replacing 3.55 with 4.56 gears

Thanks guys, I do have the dial indicators and a install video.
 
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Old Apr 17, 2008 | 01:20 PM
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Default RE: replacing 3.55 with 4.56 gears

Well then, good luck and let us know how it comes out. Oh, yea, and if you get a chance, pics would be awsome...
 
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Old Apr 17, 2008 | 01:22 PM
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Default RE: replacing 3.55 with 4.56 gears

Did you get the install kit? I assume you did. If you dont already have it, get some blue machinist die to check the wear pattern also. Take your time, double check everything and dont get frustrated and you should be fine! MOST IMPORTANTLY!! save the beer for after your done!! [sm=icon_cheers.gif][sm=icon_guiness.gif]
 
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Old Apr 17, 2008 | 01:41 PM
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Default RE: replacing 3.55 with 4.56 gears

Thanks agian guys, I will let you know how it went on monday.
 
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Old Apr 17, 2008 | 03:26 PM
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Default RE: replacing 3.55 with 4.56 gears

a DIY on it would be nice too. does anyone know what the going price on installation is? and where did you get the gears and for how much?
 
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Old Apr 17, 2008 | 03:52 PM
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Default RE: replacing 3.55 with 4.56 gears

I got the gears form Summit and they were $200 plus the install kit was $137.
 
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