How to tell what differential you have on a Chevy?
To determine the type of differential in your Chevy vehicle, you'll need to look for specific identifying marks or numbers on the differential housing. This information can help you identify the gear ratio and other key details about the differential system.
Locating the Differential Identification
The differential on your Chevy is typically located on the rear axle, either in the center of the rear end or on one side. To access the differential identification, you may need to raise the vehicle and remove the rear wheels.
- Look for a tag, sticker, or casting number on the differential housing itself.
- The differential identification may also be stamped directly onto the housing.
- Check the axle tubes or surrounding components for any additional identification markings.
Once you've located the differential identification, you can use that information to determine the gear ratio and other key details about your Chevy's differential.
Interpreting the Differential Identification
The differential identification typically includes a series of numbers and letters that provide specific details about the differential. Here's how to interpret the information:
- Gear Ratio: The gear ratio is often the most important piece of information, as it determines the amount of torque and speed the differential provides. Common Chevy gear ratios include 3.08, 3.42, 3.73, and 4.10.
- Differential Type: The differential type may be indicated by letters or numbers, such as "10-bolt" or "12-bolt." This refers to the number of bolts used to secure the differential cover.
- Axle Type: The axle type, such as "C-clip" or "full-floating," may also be included in the identification.
By understanding the information provided on the differential identification, you can determine the specific type of differential in your Chevy and ensure you have the correct replacement parts if needed.
How do you tell what type of differential you have?
Without an ID tag, differentials are identified by the number of cover bolts, the distinctive shape of the cover, the number of ring gear bolts, and ring gear diameter. They can also be identified by whether the center section is an integral or dropout design.
How do I identify my rear axle F-350?
1999-2016 Dana 80 Dual Rear Wheel Rear Axles in Ford F-350, F-450 Super Duty trucks and motorhome chassis have a Bill of Material Number (BOM) stamped on a Build Tag (red arrow) attached to the differential by two of the differential cover bolts (yellow arrows).
How can I tell what gear ratio I have without pulling cover?
I have my buddy holding the other Tire. I start spinning this and I'm watching the other. One. That's one full rotation right there.
How do I identify my Chevy differential?
Identify your GMC or Chevrolet rear end gear ratio by the RPO Codes, usually located on the placard labeled “Service Parts Identification” inside the drivers door panel or glove box.
How do I tell what gear ratio my Chevy rear end has?
Check the Differential Cover
The axle may have a sticker, and on the differential cover, you might have a small metal tag that's sticking out that will have the gear ratio stamped on it.
Can you tell what rear end you have by VIN number?
You don't. That information is not contained in the VIN, UNLESS a specific model only gets one rear end ratio. VIN tells country of manufacture, vehicle make, class, engine type, size, date of manufacture, plant and serial number. That is the ONLY information contained by the VIN.
Is 3.73 gear ratio good?
A 3.73 gear ratio is going to be good for several different reasons, depending on the application. For a truck, it is great for heavier loads where factory gear ratios that are 3.55 or 3.31.
How do you tell the difference between limited slip diff and normal diff?
Like an open differential, the wheels can rotate at different speeds. However, with a limited slip differential, torque is not always balanced between the wheels. This allows the wheel with traction to receive more torque in order to continue to move the vehicle.
How do I tell if my truck has a limited slip differential?
Many vehicles also have a tag or writing on the diff if they are an LSD. It may say LS 90 or something similar. Another way to find out, if they don't want to get dirty, is to contact the dealer, check the owner's manual or take the car into a workshop and get them to check it.
How can you tell the difference between a 3.73 and a 4.10 gear ratio?
Likewise, if the driveshaft spins roughly 3 ¾ times, that will equal a 3.73 rear end gear, and if it spins just over 4 times, this will equate to a 4.10 rear end gear.
