What is necessary to swap 2.73 gears to 3.42 gears in a factory 10 bolt? This is an LS1 rear end. From my understanding the 2.73 gear is thicker. Can you use the ring gear spacer that motive gear makes(part number MOT075050) in order to avoid changing carriers?

 

find a stock rear from a 6-speed.

 

Ya, just find a 10 bolt out of a 6 spd. Your can usually pick them up for about $250 complete and then just swap complete rear ends which works out to be cheaper than buying a ring and pinion and having it installed plus you will still have a complete rear end if you happen to break and axle or something.
I went this route and don't regret it.

 

I agree on just swapping out the rears. Like the others said cheaper in the long run. We just swapped out the rear on my car. I must say I hope I never have to help my boyfriend carry another rear again.....too darn heavy for me . I didnt mind the gear oil all over the place though

 

Yep. You need a spacer. I got one left if you want it PM me.

I put a 2 series carrier in my 10-bolt when I got it rebuilt a couple months ago. I got a good deal on a auto rear & a set of 3.42's sepreate so I went that route. I ordered the spacer & (2) came in.

 

Richmond and other manufactorers make thick ring gears. I just put 3.73 in my 94 sonoma 4x4 and used a 00 z28 2-series torsion carrier. I had no trouble on the install. You can use a spacer if you al ready have the gears. I used a spacer in my 78 camaro 8.5" when I went to 3.73 instead of 2.41.

 

Sent you a pm.