Topic: installing a spool

[kyle_22r]

i've got 2 factory 4.88 diffs sitting in the garage right now.  i'm planning on tossing these in my truck, but i'd really like to lock them up.  i'm figuring since i don't drive this one every day like i used to when i bought it, i'd put a spool in the rear and a lockright up front.

these things are supposed to have a typical V6 carrier, but i've heard a few differing accounts of people not being able to install lockers in them.  i figure it's at least worth a shot, as i'm only sunk $500 in these(one is from a '94 4runner, the other is from a '95 with 38,000 miles )

that said, is installing a spool much of a task for somebody a little more-than a little mechanically inclined?  i've done just about everything except rebuild a tranny and set a diff.  however i've got a decent grasp on how the process works, and have access to a press.  is it likely that i'll need to re-shim the pinion to install one of these or is it usually a mostly drop-in fit?

[scheid6996]

ya it is perdy easey if u have a press or acsess to one, but u will need to re shim and possably new bearings, u should jus buy a master install kit to do it right, if u want ya u could jus pull ur old bearings off and press them on the spool, but its best to jus spend the 100 bucks and get a master install kit

[derek]

if they are factory 4.88's then you cant do anything with them, no lockers available.
your best bet will be to weld them up and run them.

derek

[jimbo74]

if they are factory 4.88's then you cant do anything with them, no lockers available.
your best bet will be to weld them up and run them.

derek

yup what he said... the factory 4.88s are weird.... aftermarket 4.88s accept lockers jsut fine......

[thestoic22]

I'll buy them from you.  That way you can purchase ones that will accept a locker.

[kyle_22r [OP]]

no, they can be locked.  it's the pinion offset that's different, the carrier is the same as any other V6 carrier.

[79coyotefrg]

no, they can be locked. it's the pinion offset that's different, the carrier is the same as any other V6 carrier.

Kyle,   i have no doubt in my mind you can do this,   pull the carrier, get the ring gear off and install it on your spool,   i f the side bearings are fine,  just ease them off and reuse them, just dont put pressure on the cage,

just set your spool in the housing and finger tighten the caps, then using some clay  you can rotate the pinion to check the gear mesh,  just like you would check piston to valve clearance on a head with a big cam

[synwars]

Weld it. Cheaper. Easier. Same result as a spool.

[jimbo74]

Weld it. Cheaper. Easier. Same result as a spool.

and if it breaks or some of the weld slags off, you get to buy a new rear axle

[85_yote_94]

and if it breaks or some of the weld slags off, you get to buy a new rear axle

weld it right an tell everyone to F off