Tahoe and Yukon front diff

[rockola1971]

then it should work that way I wasn't 100% sure I thought maybe the gear inside was different aside from the actuator, I know the fitment is the same just wasn't sure on the difference from 4wd to awd gear

No difference internally once you get past the 4wd actuator and the arm that the actuator pushes against. There is an adaptor that essentially uses the actuator mounting bolts and just presses the arm in full time once installed. The 4wd actuator housing with actuator can also be installed on the AWD front diff also.

 

[MassHoe04]

Thanks for the educational and detailed explanation @rockola1971 !
I had a feeling, that the 4WD diff and the rest of the AWD would not be compatible as-is.
I learned a lot from this discussion.

So, with that adapter replacing the electric actuator to keep the front diff engaged all the time, he would be good to go (assuming gear ratios match).

See if I am understanding your notes to the OP correctly...
It is not advisable to try running the truck without that adapter (replacing the electric actuator) to keep the front diff engaged 100% of the time. Running the front diff disengaged on the AWD system would likely damage the AWD transfer case. He needs the adapter in there before trying to drive anywhere. Did I get that right?

 

[George B]

If it were me I would swap over the AWD extension housing and right side shafts and have the correct setup.
This will give you the idea. Near the end they swap that extension housing. I have had mine off before. It’s easy and you can do it with the unit in the truck. At least on my NNBS.

 

[rockola1971]

Thanks for the educational and detailed explanation @rockola1971 !
I had a feeling, that the 4WD diff and the rest of the AWD would not be compatible as-is.
I learned a lot from this discussion.

So, with that adapter replacing the electric actuator to keep the front diff engaged all the time, he would be good to go (assuming gear ratios match).

See if I am understanding your notes to the OP correctly...
It is not advisable to try running the truck without that adapter (replacing the electric actuator) to keep the front diff engaged 100% of the time. Running the front diff disengaged on the AWD system would likely damage the AWD transfer case. He needs the adapter in there before trying to drive anywhere. Did I get that right?

Yep AWD Tcase will destroy itself if not hooked up to a load. You have to have the front diff locked in and always have the front driveshaft installed.