HuggerOrangeZ

I think I know the answer to this but I wanted to make sure.

I have a 99 Z28 with the 2.73's and series 2 carrier in it. I wanted to swap them out for 3.42's out of a SS (with a 3 series carrier). Now from what I have read the 3.42's will not fit unless I change to a series 3 carrier which cost quite a bit more than just buying the correct gears for my carrier.

So my question is: Is there a any other way to make these 3.42's fit?


Thanks

jetlag

iTrader: (32)

Is your car 3 chan or 4 chan? When I was going to swap in 3.42s w/ carrier, I also needed to buy a the reluctor ring or whatever it is called (since I didn't have TCS..only ABS) and it ended up being easier to just buy new 2 series gears and install kit.

HuggerOrangeZ

I have ABS and TC so whatever channel that is.

But I thought it would be just easier to buy gears for my series 2 carrier.


Thanks

jetlag

iTrader: (32)

ABS/TCS is 4 chan. So you shouldn't need anything extra. It is mainly a PITA for 3 chan (ABS only) cars if the carrier doesn't have the ring.

rel3rd

iTrader: (43)

Since you have determined that you have a 4 channel rear (traction control & abs) then that part is out of the way and not a factor. The 3 channel/4 channel thing makes no difference in your case, since it's a moot point.

To make the 342's you already have fit, you'd need a 3 series carrier.

You can simply buy new 342's, 373's or even 410's for a 2 series carrier like you already have though. That'd be your cheapest alternative IMO.

HuggerOrangeZ

Thats what I thought . Looks like I will be buying some other gears. What aftermarket brand is the best/quietest? I know thats a bad question but just want to see some opinions.

Thanks

jetlag

iTrader: (32)

Some people say Motive gears whine bad. Mine do, but I blame the installer.

It's just going to be luck of the draw, find the best gear installer in your area... if you have to pay a little extra, it will be worth it.

I had my gears set up twice...

01SuperSport

iTrader: (7)

From what I have read GM gears are quiet but more expensive. All aftermarket gears are going to make noise IMO. It all depends on the installer though as well. Good luck

rel3rd

iTrader: (43)

I've installed a few sets of Motive Gears, and they've been as quiet as stock.

The last gears I installed, were in my own car, and were Summit brand 410's (for a 2 series carrier). They were also as quiet as stock, which actually surprised me since they were very cheap.

I've "heard" Yukon gears are also nice, but no personal experience.

I agree, make sure you have someone install them that has done many sets before yours, not just a general repair mechanic who rarely does any gear installs. It seems the higher the ratio, the more noise you'll hear, but a quality conscious, experienced installer will ensure the longest life and the quietest setup IMO.

If you already have the 3 series 342 gears, you could always look around for a 3 series carrier to go with them. I have found two complete rears locally (both w/342's already in them) for $150 each, that were plenty useable. In fact one has been in my car for almost 2 years and many dragstrip passes. Just another option or two for you.

HuggerOrangeZ

Thanks for all the help.

I would really like to use the gears I have because they are stock GM gears from an SS and I would think they would be just as quiet as my 2.73's. They also already have about 8,000 miles on them so they are already broken in.

Anybody ever see this?
http://store.summitracing.com/partde...5&autoview=sku

It says it's for installing a bigger series gear into a smaller series carrier.

jetlag

iTrader: (32)

I wouldn't mess with a spacer.

HuggerOrangeZ

Really? Are there any reasons why a spacer is a bad idea?

jetlag

iTrader: (32)

It's an extra piece in an already weak rear. Keep it simple

FirstYrLS1Z

iTrader: (4)

spacer thread
https://ls1tech.com/forums/gears-axl...6-carrier.html

HuggerOrangeZ

Very helpful information.

Thanks

Huggerorange73

iTrader: (5)

Gotta keep me up to date on how this all turns out!

I have 2:73s as well....and I've been kicking around either 3:42s or 3:73s....also considering actually keeping the 2:73s and seeing how the car performs with those as well.

I want to do a swap, but am still shell shocked from the 3 10 bolts that blew up on my 93 Z.

HuggerOrangeZ

I think I'm just gonna go with the Summit 3.42's for the 2 series. They are cheapest and like mentioned above they are quiet. Won't have them installed until april though, cars in storage.

Eventually I will have a 9" so I just want a cheap fix til the 10 bolt goes (hate these 2.73's)

BKDZ28

iTrader: (10)

You should do what I did. I bought a used 3 series Torsen and a set of used 3.42 for $150 + shipping . They are quiet, and have no whine what so ever make sure they are factory gm gears. Good Luck got mine on EBAY but often they are sold on the LSX classified section 98-02 have the torsen with the 3.42 mostly 6 speeds

jetlag

iTrader: (32)

I didn't gain much from gears, and IMO wasn't worth all the money spent on that weak 10 bolt..hah

Biggest gain on an auto is a stall! Best mod ever.

HuggerOrangeZ

That's not a bad idea. I already have the gears though. I wonder if I could get just the carrier and no gears for around $100.