Horntoad
Newbie
I know a lot of people think (some quite vehemently, including @Schurkey ) the 10 bolt is crap. But I also know many who think it, at least the big 8.5" 10 bolt with 30 splines and big 1.32" shafts (which are not necked down at the splines like the 1.28", correct?) and big bearings, is a good stock axle with limitations.
As I understand it, the weaknesses to address might be stronger axle shafts (not prob necessary with an open diff), carrier bearing cap support bolts via an aftermarket diff cover (and which also strengthens the housing), and the G80 (which I don't have - to the best of my knowledge is sort of a locker/limited slip hybrid; and even with the G80 I hear mixed reviews and that often instances of them blowing up are due to abuse).
I know many will say swap in a 14-bolt, but that axle is twice as heavy or more. I don't know that I need it; mine is not a full-time 4WD rig, and I'm not doing any rock crawling.
So I'm thinking a(n Eaton/Detroit) True-Trac limited-slip and 1541 axles with new wheel studs (maybe Richmond/Excel or USA Standard Gear, as they've got them on RockAuto), not sure which bearing cap support diff cover yet. Timken bearings and races (are they the only way to go or is that some hype?; carrier bearings would need to fit the True-Trac carrier; see also), and seals (brand recommendations?).
Anything I'm missing? Suggestions, insight, and constructive comments welcome, as are parts suppliers and cost saving tips.
This is a 1995 Tahoe 4WD 2DR 5.7L w/3.42 gears. Thanks for reading! (and I've already got 11" duo-servo rear drums I need to install; which is partly why I'm thinking if I've got to pull the axle shafts to install those, what else should I do while I'm at it)
As I understand it, the weaknesses to address might be stronger axle shafts (not prob necessary with an open diff), carrier bearing cap support bolts via an aftermarket diff cover (and which also strengthens the housing), and the G80 (which I don't have - to the best of my knowledge is sort of a locker/limited slip hybrid; and even with the G80 I hear mixed reviews and that often instances of them blowing up are due to abuse).
I know many will say swap in a 14-bolt, but that axle is twice as heavy or more. I don't know that I need it; mine is not a full-time 4WD rig, and I'm not doing any rock crawling.
So I'm thinking a(n Eaton/Detroit) True-Trac limited-slip and 1541 axles with new wheel studs (maybe Richmond/Excel or USA Standard Gear, as they've got them on RockAuto), not sure which bearing cap support diff cover yet. Timken bearings and races (are they the only way to go or is that some hype?; carrier bearings would need to fit the True-Trac carrier; see also), and seals (brand recommendations?).
Anything I'm missing? Suggestions, insight, and constructive comments welcome, as are parts suppliers and cost saving tips.
This is a 1995 Tahoe 4WD 2DR 5.7L w/3.42 gears. Thanks for reading! (and I've already got 11" duo-servo rear drums I need to install; which is partly why I'm thinking if I've got to pull the axle shafts to install those, what else should I do while I'm at it)
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