Please Help ID Differential

[USAF]

Recently bought my 72 3/4 Ton 4 X 4 and want to upgrade the differential cover but don't know what differential this is. Was thinking it was a Dana 60 but the Dana 60 covers I've seen online aren't designed anything at all like the one on my truck. This cover is mostly just round whereas the Dana 60 covers online aren't round. Also, it has 8-lug axles. Appreciate any help anyone can provide.

[Bigdav160]

Eaton. Last year for that diff was 1972

You probably won't find any aftermarket support.

[Dieselwrencher]

That is a HO52 more than likely. There is someone that makes an aluminum cover for it. I will see if I can find the link for it.

[USAF]

Thank you very much guys. VERY much appreciate it. Does the Eaton have any advantages over the Dana? Very glad I found this site as everyone is very helpful.

[Dieselwrencher]

Originally Posted by USAF

Thank you very much guys. VERY much appreciate it. Does the Eaton have any advantages over the Dana? Very glad I found this site as everyone is very helpful.

Yes and no. Some parts are getting harder to get for the HO52 and HO72. But here is a list of threads from a search that can provide you some info. These rear ends are pretty strong. One of few differentials that have a side pre load bolt on the ring gear.

https://www.google.com/search?domain...D%3A1%3B&hl=en

Very nice truck too by the way! I haven't found that link for the cover yet.

After an edit.... I have found 2 different ones.

http://www.ruffstuffspecialties.com/catalog/R1970.html

http://999offroad.com/product/eaton-...ty-diff-cover/

https://www.google.com/search?q=ho52...w=1270&bih=937

[USAF]

Thank you very much Ryan. Appreciate the help!!!

[special-K]

Very nice K/20 you have. Looks like Ryan has you covered on the info you've asked. Yes, the HO52 is a very good rear. Compared to the Dana60 I'd say the HO52 is stronger.

Those mirrors are swung out for towing/camper hauling. If you're not doing any of that it's best to have them folded in. Less chance of clipping them on something and damaging your door. Heck, I find even when towing folded in works fine...unless towing something a whole lot wider than the truck. They look pretty goofy hanging way out there anyway, IMO.

[Shaky]

Thread here with another thread referenced in it:

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=747900

[USAF]

Thanks for all the help guys. As I've read the many links, it's possible that my differential may be an HO72 since it has leaf springs and is a 3/4 ton camper special. When I search for a differential cover gasket stating 72 K20 all I'm given is the HO72 gasket. Is there a visual indicator to tell if it's a 72 or 52?

[Stocker]

HO72 was typically on one-ton trucks... unless yours has been changed it is an HO52. Leaf springs don't matter afaik..... all K20s came with leaf springs. Cover gasket will be the same either way. HO72 has bigger brakes and possibly some bearings (axle bearings?) are bigger than HO52, but for the most part they are identical including the center section.

[harpo231]

Is this a mirror thread ??

[Mike C]

The HO52 is the progenitor to the full-float 14 bolt. In stock form GM considered it good for 5200# GVW (thus the 52) while the Dana 60 was 5500# GVW.

They are very stout rear end and no need to replace it if in good condition.

The HO52 can be upgraded to newer 14 bolt axles and the 14 bolt Detroit. If I had one in my truck and it was in good shape I would run it. If I was faced with rebuilding it, I'd score a full-float 14 and swap it in.

Or if you want to run a limited slip instead of a locker I'd look at a 14 bolt swap or if you want less than 4.10 gears.