My rear end started whining last year and I've decided now is the time to fix it. So I went to my local pick n pull yesterday hoping to find a whole axle, but as usual the very few 3rd gens they had there were completely stripped. I did a search around and there are numerous S10s, 1 set of 3:73 and several 3:42s. I'm thinking a used set sounds good but having never done this I have some concerns.

So my plan is to remove the carrier and label the left/right shims as they come out. I've also heard to mark the pinion nut and threads so you can retighten to the proper preload. Is there any other things I should know? Any advice on visually inspecting the gears (other than obvious damage)?

Thanks, I'd appreciate any advice!

 

it might work. Every case is different from the next. Just because they are mass produced doesnt mean they are the same.