gears

[masterblazer]

i have an 85 k5 with a 28 spline 8.5 inch 10 bolt.(atleast according to the main page of ck5.com) it is all stock suspension so im assuming that is correct. just been wanting to put some 4.56 gears in it but all i seem to find is gears that say for 30 spline?? is there any difference and were would be the cheapest place to get them?? then the big question, should i try and tackle putting them in myself or just leave it to one of my local rearend guys?

 

[Hogback Fabrication]

I don't believe there is any difference.

I would look here for gears. You'll need an install kit too (bearings, shims, seals, etc.).

They sell package deals too.

Setting up gears isn't a simple remove and replace thing, it involves special tools and the know how to get the gears to mesh correctly. Here is a walkthrough of what it takes.

 

[4X4HIGH]

There is no difference in the gears just the carriers. If you've never set-up gears before and don't have the required tools and or ability I would suggest you leave it to the pro's. Also, with a 10 bolt axle the pinion gear gets pretty small with 4.56 gearing and many people have grenaded gears in this application. You would be better suited to find a 14ff for the rear that either already has 4.56's or have your local pro's install them for you in a 14ff. The front axle isn't as bad since you obviously only use it when in 4WD and usually at slow speeds. Of course this would require new 8 lug wheels.

 

[resurrected_jimmy]

I have found the differential book from Randy's to be a very helpful learning tool before tearing into a diff. http://www.ringpinion.com/DiffBook.aspx