me1234

Alright. So I finally got enough for the differential and instal, the only issue is finding a fair price for the labor. All the shops around me want at least $650 (one shop quoted me $900...). This seems outrageous to me since some people do this at home themselves with what appears to be minimal experience. From what I've seen on other forums, I was expecting a $300 labor cost, $400 max.

I've never dug into one of these before(aside from changing diff fluid) and also don't have any of the super specialized differential tools. I have a complete wrench, ratchet, and socket set though. Would it be worth my while to buy the tools, seals, bearings, diff fluid, and anything else i'll need to do it myself or keep on searching for a cheaper quote, possibly traveling a ways to get it done?

Also, I'd be willing to keep the stock 3.55 gearing to make installing it myself easier.

VFL

I was quoted 250 in labor to install one.

me1234

Alright guys I found a shop to do it for $350 and also decided to stick with 3.55s. Still a little expensive but I think its the best im gonna be able to do in my area. I'm going to order the differential, nation bearing kit w/ seals, differential fluid and the gasket. Anything else i need before dropping it off at the shop? Anything im forgetting?

VFL

Now is better than any other time to upgrade your gears. If it were me, I would upgrade those as well.

me1234

What gears would you recommend? Like company gears? I was thinking ford if I did it.

me1234

My reasoning for not upgrading would be the increase in switching to 3.73s may not be very noticeable(at least thats what i see on other forums). And im looking at roughly $220 for new gears right?

VFL

Roughly, yes. What size tires are you running? I'm soon to be putting Yukon 4.10s and the Eaton in mine

me1234

Right now I'm just running stock xlt wheels and tires(well, not stock tires lol but size). I don't really plan on offroading, but do like the idea of my truck not being able to get stuck as easily since i do drive it in some muddy areas out of necessity. I'm also upgrading for the lack of maintenance and with the hope this will stop my 60mph shake and stop it from ever coming back.

VFL

4.10s will really wake up power in the lower end of the RPM range. That's why I'm doing it

me1234

I decided to stick with my 3.55s. They've served me well so far and I already get crappy gas milage anyway lol. Thanks for the response guys.

What weight oil do you guys use? Eaton says to use a petroleum based non-synthetic oil. I was going to use 75w-140(whats in it now), but cant find this in a nonsyn formula. Any suggestions?