Dif shop in So. Cal

[Killo1]

I got one quote from a reputable shop here in Southern California. $1350 to change my 3.7 to a 4.1 front and rear end on my '03 Z71 suburban 4wd. Then there is another $280 charge by another company to adjust the speedo. so the the shifting and what not works correctly.

As never pricing this before, does this price seem good?

Also, does anyone have any other shops they would recommend getting quotes from her in southern cal?

Thanks

[scottanlily]

Hello killo1,

That sounds about right ,first, the rear differential carrier inside the rear housing usually gets replaced when going to a 4:10 gear as the case cannot accomadate that ratio .Secondly the front differential takes a substantial amount of work to remove the main section as it is two halves put together
with the axle tubes bolted to it ,not to mention the end drive axles ,and
hubs etc. that are removed .The cost of two sets of gears ,bearings etc.
Id say if they have a solid reputation to go for it ,a cheaper job isn't
necessarly better .The 280 for speedo calibration seems steep ,check with your GM dealer to see if the computer can be reprogrammed with the vss
vehical speed sensor calibration for the 4:10 gear ,I think they can do that
as those trucks can be had with that ratio.It has to be done however or the PCM or computer will store a trouble code and illuminate the MIL on the dash
that is the( service engine soon lite) or malfuncion indicator lite as its known.
That will affect the ABS also so that code will also set.

Good luck ,good decision on the gear change

Scott

[Ultradog]

Just curious,
Why would you change the gearing?

[markjoandall]

Alan

I think those prices are appropriate because you have two dif's to change. I didn't change the carrier on mine when I changed the gearing. You can purchase a device on the internet to change the computer in your truck yourself.

When you get it done, I'll be waiting to hear what you think about the change in towing performance. I couldn't believe the difference the gearing change made.

Mark

[Killo1]

Originally Posted by Ultradog

Just curious,
Why would you change the gearing?

Although it tows "ok" now, a little extra power on the hills would be nice. And since I mainly use this vehicle for towing my trailer I'm not to concernced with the gas mileage.

[scottanlily]

Hey killo1 ,

you might be surprised to find that your mileage does not go down the drain
not always a problem ,and it might only be a mpg less ,that being said ,every drop is important ,but it sure will tow better ,starting out from a stop ,hills
all good stuff.

scott