Need some advice and guidence. Tonight the rear diff in my dads truck ('96 2500 12v 5spd 3.54's) decided it no longer wanted to live after 287xxx miles and the pinion bearing got hot and it is now making a whole lot of clunks and bangs. Now this is partially caused from the diff cover rusting through and losing a large amount of oil, but not much I can do about it now. I will be taking the cover off tomorrow, I hope, to asses the damage but I am assuming worst case. I will need differential bearings, the ring and pinion gears and whatever limited slip is in it. Where should I be looking for these parts and what challenges will I face to do this? I;m not looking forward to it but I know I will be the chosen one to get it fixed .
Thanks for the help,
DS79

 

Look at your local Craigslist for a axle.

Probably be a couple hundred dollars for one.


Running out of fluid can take out Ring and Pinion, Pinion bearings and the 4 bearings at the wheel hubs.

 

Many options....

CL as suggested
Call Oliver foster
Call DTS. (drivetrain specialties)DTS - Drive Train Specialists

Dts needs the number on the ring gears edge. Usually 7 or 8 digit alphanumeric string stamped into the side of the year.

They usually have anything you'll need

 

I looked on CL and found one about 3.5hrs away for $350. I think it would be the best to buy that one and swap it but I don't want to drive that far this weekend. I have yet to pull the cover but I will soon. Thanks for the replies, I'll try and post some pics once I get the cover off.DS79

 

The axle I had lined up was sold out from under me so I am looking again. These 80's are like hens teeth around here, and not being able to use the dually axle makes it even harder. Is there another option that I can swap into the truck that is just as stout? Maybe even get some disc brakes on it? His current axle needs brakes so I can add some money and still be in the same boat as swapping in the 80.
Thanks,
DS79

 

[QUOTE=NJTman;3311274]Many options....

CL as suggested
Call Oliver foster/QUOTE]

This^^^
Hi I am Oliver
I have a spare D-80 like T man mentioned.
PM me if you like.