XLTOffRoad

LT E load rated

nihilus

subscribed,
I too want to go with 34" LT rated tires. I am so confused now on what axles my '13 STX 4x4 has. Am i to inderstand they are 9.75" rear and 8.8" front? This seems weird to me. Are "master install kits" necessary? Lastly what is the average cost for 4x4 re gear with parts and labor?

beakie

9.75" rear = yes
8.8" front = yes

I would seek out a reputable offroad shop where ever you are. re-gearing axles is very common in the off-road world, so they do them often, do them right, and should offer some kind of a warranty providing you perform a proper break in of the new gears (proper break in is KEY)

8.8 Yukon gears

9.75 Yukon gears

give them a call, they would be able to hook you up with everything you need, OR, maybe advise a shop local that can do everything for you.
IE reccomend gear ratio, order & install gears.


Oh, and cost wise... I'd guess anywhere from $500-$1500. really depends if there are places around that do them, or if they do them but charge big $$, or if you have to drive an hour to find a place that does a lot of them, good prices, great quality and you can trust them.
search for a local 4x4 club, get to know them, they will hook you up with the right shop.

nihilus

Thanks Beakie!

What about the master install kits? I would be doing it once the stock tires are worn (60,000 miles?) That front and rear kit is about $600!

beakie

I can't tell you to be honest as I have never done it myself. I had gears done on my jeep years ago, and I got the master install kit for both axles... but it may be something to ask the shop if/when you find one.

Search/find the shop before you need them, they may have better prices, and/or have the kits because they do lots of them... or say "X" axle doesn't need them for whatever reason.

Again, a reputable shop will help you make the decision, advise what gears you need/want for the application you will use them for (offroad,mud bogs,cruisin',etc) and should give you that "feel good" vibe interacting with them.

RES4CUE

Everything I've read and people I've talked to say yes on the master install kits.

They aren't that much more on top of the gears so you might as well do it and know you have new bearings and crush sleeves.