I've heard that...I'm just afraid that it might be missing. That's why I was wondering if there is a backup method, like counting gear teeth. I assume the tag is pretty simple to understand and doesn't have any letter codes that I need to reference.

 

Tag will be stamped 3.55 or whatever gear it is. I have seen some leave the last digit off (3.5) but I don't remember what make that was on. I suppose you could count the teeth on both gears and divide them also.

 

The tag was still there and said 3.55. I got one off a '91 Lariat today. Haven't put it on yet...I forgot to take the yolk that goes between the drive shaft and the pinion so I won't be able to hook up the drive shaft. The one on there now is different. I'll post my results.

 

Can also check gear ratio, by counting rotations. Mark the pinion flange and the one lug nut. Rotate the axle with the marked lug one full rotation, and count how many the pinion flange does.

With one rotation of axle and three and a half of pinion flange is 3.55's,
" " and three and 3/4 of pinion is 3.73's
" " and just a tad over three of pinion is 3.08's
ETC.....

 

Most of the gears I have seen have the tooth count marked on the gear set you can divide the ring gear by the pinion gear to find the gear ratio if they are stamped. If you are still needing another axle look for a truck with a letter starting the gear ratios. This indicates that it came stock with a limited slip.

 

Thanks for the responses. I didn't bother counting gear teeth...the tag was intact and pretty clearly marked "3.55", along with other codes that I don't have a clue about. The gears looked excellent with hardly a scratch on them, and the oil that came out looked real clean so I think I have a good one.

I am wondering how hard is it to change the bearings? I figure that while its up on stands I might as well get that done too. I've got the Hayne's manual, and if I'm reading the right part, it sounds like I need some special tools.

 

You can change the outer axle bearings without special tools and the carrier bearings with a puller . But just remeber to keep the carrier shims on the same side they were. Now if you want to change pinion bearings, need a new crush sleeve and reset the gears up.

 

I have a successful install, and drove the truck to work today. Thanks for all the help.