how do I do this? rear end carrier change

[dumbucket1]

I have a chance to buy a posi carrier with 3.42 gears on it. I would like to put that in place of my open carrier with 2.73 gears. What all is involved in doing this? thanks

[VileZambonie]

You need to change the ring and pinion and swap over the carrier. You'll need to set your pinion depth first which requires special measurements and tools. You'll need a new crush collar and shim assortment. Check the bearings carefully. Once set you can install the carrier and set the backlash and bearing preload. Preload can be checked by checking side to side clearance. Once complete check your gear tooth contact pattern.

[dumbucket1]

I suppose these tools can't be rented?

[VileZambonie]

You'll need a pinion depth gauge, dial indicator, pinion flange holding fixture of some sort, inlb dial type torque wrench, (beam if that's all you can get), large sockets, breaker bars, etc. It's really not a do it yourself kinda job unless you have the tools available or know what you're doing. I wouldn't attempt it until you learn how to do it first.

So do some reading if you want to do it yourself

http://www.drivetrain.com/ringpinioninstal.html

http://www.richmondgear.com/01instructions.html

http://www.chevyhiperformance.com/techarticles/148_0207_10_bolt_rearend_gear_install/index.html