watsonb

Just picked up a 92 rs for cheap. It has a crate 350 with a th350 transmission. She runs like a dream but i am looking to upgrade the stock open rearend with 2.73 gears. Definitely want posi and some better gearing. Looking to not spend much. Swap rear end from other camaro? Clearly new to this and appreciate help. Thanks!

Jorlain

iTrader: (4)

The easiest solution, and sometimes cheapest, is to find a LS1 4th Gen with a Torsen differential. I believe the year range for the Torsen is 99-02, but I've heard that the 98's might have them as well. Pull the whole axle assembly and install in yours. Typically 3.42:1 gearset and a much better differential compared to the Auburns. The axle is about an inch or so wider on each side, though, so it might make the rear wheels stick out a smidge.

watsonb

Found a 4th gen rear end 3.42 posi for 400 bucks. I wont be installing myself as i dont have the facilities to do so. Any idea what it would cost to have done? And the tires sticking out and inch shouldn't be an issue correct?

Jorlain

iTrader: (4)

It's a straight forward swap. Disconnect the panhard bar from the axle, the lower connecting arms, and the shocks. Lower the unit and the springs will basically fall out. I easily dropped mine and reinstalled it in my driveway. The only real difficult part is moving the axle. With a helper to move it, it's a lot easier, or I've seen people use 2x4's cut to cradle the housing with 4 casters on it. Worked pretty slick. It takes about 30-45 minutes to drop it using hand tools.

The tires sticking out usually isn't an issue for people. The 93-97 axles are a little wider than the 98-02 axles. If it drives you nuts, you could always switch to 4th gen rims to correct the offset.

I would verify that it has a Torsen differential, though. You don't want the Auburn. Once they wear out, they're junk, since they can't be rebuilt.

big gear head

Quick Performance sells a kit with the Yukon Dura Grip, USA Standard installation kit and US Strange gears for about $550. This is the best deal you are going to find for parts to rebuild the rear end that you already have. If you don't know how to set up gears then you will have to find someone who does.

watsonb

That would be the equivalent, performance wise, of just installing a 4th gen rear end correct?

Jorlain

iTrader: (4)

The advantage of the 4th gen swap is that you don't have to worry about setting your depth, backlash, etc.

Not to beat a dead horse, but it's the most worthwhile with a Torsen. Otherwise the only advantage you get is the 4th gen rear brakes. Which reminds me, you won't have a parking brake without some work. I unfortunately do not recall the specifics on getting the parking brake setup with the 4th gen brakes.