Questioning My Ability

[Iowa 73]

I've never set up gears, but I am getting ready to put a Detroit locker in the rear of my pulling truck. I'm not too worried about it because I have plenty of time, and I will make sure it is done right. I have a hard time trusting anyone to work on any of my vehicles. Too many chances for someone to take a short cut.
If you have the time, and don't mind chasing down a few tools, I would day go for it. Just don't rush yourself.

 

[Agnem]

I used to be afraid to work on rears, then I did one. There was nothing to it. My trusted Ford mechanic told me you should never need a spreader for a Dana or Sterling axle. Yes, it's a precise fit, but on both Graham's 10.25 as well as whatever that is under my Excursion, the third member pulled out and dropped in with hand force only. It's tougher under the truck than it is with out out, but you can do it either way. Avoiding the crush sleeve is a must if doing it under the truck. There is no way you will ever get the needed leverage to set the pre-load if your laying on the ground. I had to use a 3' breaker bar and stand on it and bounce!

 

[riotwarrior]

I'm sure we can all agree we know Gary CAN do it....however as I mentioned, I'd rather see him install his IC than swap rear gears and then have that rear done professionally

Just sayin...

 

[typ4]

Bring truck to towcats memorial weekend Ill bring my 410 set, you get bearings and shims, if its on a lift and axles out when I get there and he has a bearing puller, or I can borrow one, ill swap them for you while you load the engines. if I can have the 355. I have a good parts source for bearings also.

 

[hesutton]

There you have it Gary. Russ comes through again. Having a few guys that have done it before there to help will be a learning experience for you man. Plus, you will be able to do it yourself down the road. Like Mel, said. It's not as bad as you think. Have a go at it. It wasn't bad swapping the open diff to the TrueTrac on the F250 at all. My only regret with that diff swap........... I didn't do the crush sleeve elimination kit.

Heath