1. how can i tell if i have 2 or 3 series ring and pinion, i found it in a box in the back seat of a parts car its a 3.42 without any other markings are they different thickness

2. if its a 3 series and i have a 2 series carrier how bad is it to run a spacer plate.

3. if i have a 350 - 400 hp 350 sbc what would be better for a street car 3.42 or 3.73 how much of a difference would they make performance wise im not looking for gas millage.

4. are there any hidden complications to instalation i should be aware of

thanks

 

i've got 2 different ring gears the one i know is a 3 series and it appears to be fatter than the other one???

 

Just replaced 2.73 gears on a 2 series carrier and installed 3.73 gears. 2 series carriers get the thicker gear unless you use a spacer plate.

The choice between 3.42's and 3.73's is like asking for opinions on camshafts. Choose what you want and be happy or change it.

As for swapping gears, have you done this before or are you willing to pay someone to do it? If you do the job yourself, have a buddy help and buy the beer. I'd suggest you call the guy's at Randy's Ring and Pinion Randy's Ring & Pinion - Your Source for Differential Parts and tell them what you want to do and ask them for a kit to fit your project. One other thing that you might consider is replacing the crush sleeve with a solid spacer. They sell that also. Ask them about it.

Good luck

 

thanks that what i needed to know