rear end gears, DIY?

[pcmcobra]

I have been thinking of changing my rear gears from 2.73 to 3.42 or 3.73
Was wondering if anyone here has done it themselves and what problems/difficulties I would have. Or should I just take to a shop?
I'd rather not spend the $, but wanted some input.
thx.
Also, what about one of those truetrac setups?

[N2TRUX]

I have done it myself in the past, but I think this is a job better off left to the pro's.

[pcmcobra]

I am thinking I totally agree.
Maybe I'll price it out this week, if I have time.
thx

[benoit454]

One is you need special tools, like a dial indicator/run out guage to check backlash. You need to press the pinion bearing on and off as well as the carrier bearings if you change thoose. if the pattern isn't borrect you'll be taking off and putting on the bearing on the pinion many times.

Also the pinion gets a set preload and that crushes the sleeve. You can't uncrush it if you go too tight so you need like an inch lb torque wrench. Also the pinion nut is large like 1-1/4 so if you don't have that socket you need to buy one. As far as tear down that parts easy, but putting it back together isn't bad either, as long as you can set the preload correctly, then check backlash and pattern.

[72C203503ONTHETREE]

Dont forget the depth gauge to. It can be done without the tools but it will take a lot of trial and error until you get the pattern right.

[N2TRUX]

Just to give you an idea, I put a set in a 4wd Toyota axle. The center section comes out like a Ford 9 inch so your not working under the truck. I did it with the help of my bro-in-law who is a very experienced mechanic that has done it many times.

Even with his knowledge and guidance and all the correct tools, it took us about 3 hours to get one set up. Of course he is very anal about getting the pattern correct, but we took that thing apart 20-25 times. Now imagine doing it under your truck.

Your much better off finding someone that can do it right, and stand behind the install.