Expensive low ratio or cheap stock final drive?

[john skadberg]

I've seen previous posts extolling the virtues of a lower ratio final
drive, but is it really worth the $$$. I have a 72 Revcon which is
lighter then the GMC (7000 dry) correct me if I'm wrong. I have a
bad bearing in my final drive and have already pulled the final drive
out. I can purchase a 3.21 or maybe lower (higher numb) from a
specialty shop for $1095. Or I can repair my 3.07 for under $400 or
replace as low as $150 from a bone yard. I also have a lead on a new
(old stock) 3.07 for $600.

BTW does anyone have have tips on reinstalling the final drive? I
was able to get it down with a floor jack with a plywood platform
bolted on it. I had to turn it sideways and roll it partially over
to get it out. I'm sure reinstalling it and not damaging the gasket
will be a real trick. Maybe supporting it from above with a chain
fall or come-along would work better. There was also one bolt
missing that's up against the eng block I think the mechanic left it
off when the tranny was overhauled (before I purchased it). Looks
almost impossible to reach.

Thanks, John

 

[emerystora]

>
BTW does anyone have have tips on reinstalling the final drive?

John - I found that if you first use two longer bolts in the lower
holes ( say about 6 inches long) you can then slide the transfer case
into the transmission and it'll go in straight. Otherwise it is very
difficult to get things lined up. Once you have the rest of the
bolts in replace the long bolts with the normal ones.

Emery Stora
77 Kingsley
Santa Fe, NM