need front differential

[kevin wilson]

Hi im new to the website and not sure where to ask but i have a 4x4 2000 Z71 Chevy Tahoe 5.7 liter and something in the front differential went out to were i had to disconect both CV axles in front just to drive because it just locks the front tires up, Some one told me to buy a new one but there spendy and im not sure how to tell what gears are in it to match a new one, im not about to sell my truck just because the 4x4 isnt working it still takes me anywhere i point it So could someone maybe help me out a little thank you very much and marry Christmas

 

[OR VietVet]

Hi im new to the website and not sure where to ask but i have a 4x4 2000 Z71 Chevy Tahoe 5.7 liter and something in the front differential went out to were i had to disconect both CV axles in front just to drive because it just locks the front tires up, Some one told me to buy a new one but there spendy and im not sure how to tell what gears are in it to match a new one, im not about to sell my truck just because the 4x4 isnt working it still takes me anywhere i point it So could someone maybe help me out a little thank you very much and marry Christmas

Ok, let's start with the obvious. It's Merry Christmas not (marry). LOL!

Likely spider gears broken. Best to have the insides inspected and see what is needed. Make sure is done by a "qualified" tech. A less expensive tech could cost way more than a qualified tech. You have an option sheet inside on the glove box cover. List whatever starts with the letter "G" here and we can try to help. The tech will be able to tell you for sure.

 

[kevin wilson]

Thank you very much i will get the list and get back to you, Is there any kind of parts area on here i might be able to get prices on a used differential i could buy

 

[OR VietVet]

There may be a spot here at the forum for parts for sale-used but unless they are close to you it is going to be expensive for freight to ship a heavy differential. Likely can just rebuild what you got and be ok and I would never put used gears/bearings/seals in my rig. Get the inspection done and go from there. What ever you end up needing we can point you in the right direction.

 

[kevin wilson]

Thank you again I will get back to you

 

[kevin wilson]

Im sorry it took so long to get back to you, The numbers i came up with from the glove box cover were GT4 And G80 if you could help figure that out that would be awesome thank you Again

 

[OR VietVet]

The GT4 means 3.73 gear ratio and the G80 is the Positraction Limited slip
for the rear axle.

 

[Wake]

Check out ebay for a replacement. The pre-2001 model diffs are pretty cheap from what I've seen. I've seen the 2000 front diffs going for less than $200. It's a bit of a PITA, but it is something you can swap out in a couple of hours on your back in the driveway. The other option is $1000+ in front differential work from a shop.

 

[kevin wilson]

thank you guys very much I will look in to those, Now i was wondering if you might be able to help tell me what might be wrong in the rear end, From a dead stop if i hit the gas to hard it feals like one of the back wheels is hopping off the ground like burning out in an old pickup and as i let off it grabs like maybe rear end slip?? I was going to take the rear axle houseing off and check for shavings but its been raining here allot any thoughts? Thank you guys again very much and Merry Christmas...

 

[OR VietVet]

I would still just look at the front diff and see how bad it is. If is just spiders it is not that expensive and less labor.

At the rear you are likely feeling the limited slip working. If you have no idea how old the fluid is in there then remove cover and drain and inspect and if is ok then refill with a synthetic lube for that diff. You can find at a parts store. You can run synthetic in both diffs. Let the rear drain down and wipe out the old fluid and can even use brake clean to spray out and let dry before reinstall cover and refill. The old fluid additives may be worn out with age and just simply changing fluid will give you a better feeling, unless of course you see something that doesn't look good. If you have never dealt with gears, front or rear, have a knowing friend or tech with you.