Noticed the other day that I have one broken leaf spring, and that the pinion on my rear diff can shake up and down. Since the shop is quoting me $1600-$2500 to rebuild the rear diff, I was wondering if I could get a complete rear diff off a truck near Calgary, AB. Also thinking about dropping the gears in favour of 4.56 gears at this point. (Still have stock 3.55's with 34" mudders!)

Anyone have any advice on this?

 

is it the pinion shaking or a worn out u-joint connecting to the DS?

 

What do they do for this 1600-2500 usd.
If you can move the pinion up and down the pinion bearing could be worn which can be easely replaced . If the bearing race is loose in the pumpkin then it is probably better to look for a new rear diff.
But if it is just te bearing worn, then buying a master bearing kit and new gears will cost you a lot less then this 1600-2500 usd. A mechanic or differential shop will probably charge from 400-500 USD for the install(when you give them the parts)

 

It is the pinion itself shaking. They said they 'won't know what they need to replace till they get in there' but it is a reputable shop so hopefully I wouldn't get hosed.
I'll have to try the pinion bearing, hopefully that's it. I've never done gears before is it possible to do on your own? Maybe if I found someone more experienced to help?

 

you have to set the backlash and such...id have a shop do it IMO

 

Also, what year differentials would fit my truck?

 

Would a 2007 1500 rear diff fit?