Hey all,

I've got an '05 1500 4x4 QCSB with the 4.7L V8 and stock 3.55 gears (no LSD). I'm thinking about upgrading to 3.92s. I consider myself competent enough under the hood, but other than changing diff fluid, I try to steer well clear of the drivetrain. I plan on having all the work done by a professional. So, a couple of questions:

Pros and cons to upgrading?
What all do I need?
Should I add a Limited-Slip Diff while I'm at it?
Are there any brands/vendors to avoid?
Where is the best place(s) to find what I need?
Is there anything specific I should look for when choosing an installer?

Thanks

 

Only slight negative is you may lose about 1 mpg on the highway at cruising speeds over about 75 mph, EVERYTHING else is a positive.

With essentially two over-drive gears, you can go more than 3.92, I'd do 4.10 with 33" or smaller tires and straight to 4.56s with any tires over 33".

If it's in the budget, by all means do an Auburn LSD or Detroit TruTrac.

Most name brand gears are fine - it's the install that's more important - so find not only a competent shop but one that has done AAM axles, they are a b*tch to set.

Normally I'd say Moe's Performance, but they have been iffy lately - Try AirRam.com for best prices and service.

You'll need front and rear ring/pinion sets and master install kit, make sure the kit uses Timken bearings.

 

Agreed on the 4.10s. LSD is a good idea (even the colors you'll see are pretty ). Gonna cost a pretty penny, though. As for the installer, I think I'd want references - this is a job for experienced installers.

 

Thanks for the input guys. Took a look at a couple of websites and it looks like it'll run about $1,200 for all the parts, LSD included. I'll make some calls tomorrow for estimates on install.

 

My local shop charges $600 per axle for Genuine Gears, install kit & labor, plus $500 for Auburn LSD installed. So roughly $1700 plus tax...