To all/ any,
dropping my differential...cracked rear cover to replace. Question: how do you tell if the side yokes are still good? Should they have minor in and out "play" from the case? Think i have to replace half shafts...rusted ujoints are stronger than some welds I've seen.
any pearls of wisdom appreciated.
C.

 

This may help
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...ay-advice.html

 

You don't say what year you have or if the diff was ever rebuilt/serviced?
There is no endplay spec to be found, consequently you can install new or rebuilt axles and have 020-030-040 or more endplay in each axle. One guy called me years ago to ask if .100" endplay was good in his freshly rebuilt diff he just checked.
I set my endplay to 005-007" you can go to 010" but I wouldn't use more.
In the stock suspension the axles and 1/2 shafts are your upper link, the more axle play the more the camber will change.
All original C3 axles were case hardened and last about 45-50k miles. Replacement axles, new and rebuilt, vary in hardness and dimensions. Some are ok, some are junk. Many selling them don't know anymore about what they're selling because they are just sellers, marking up their cost. Replacing the axles alone will not bring in the endplay to where I set them. For example, if you had 040" endplay and installed new or rebuilt axles, they might cut it down to 020-025" which I guess is good for some people. There are a couple of areas within the diff that contribute to axle endplay in addition to just axle tip wear.
All 63-79 are 17 spline axles. I don't recall the 80-82 fine spline count. The 63-79 are differential diff completely compared to the 80-82.

 

Gary:
Just a side note to this thread!!
In order to remove the steering box on my 78 will I need a lift??
JJ78

 

Apologies, of course. I was short on details. 1972; 454 4 spd, 49000 original miles. No service on the differential as far as I know. The crack is the rear 2 spring bolts...rusted/ broken off the case. This is my first vette so I'm not entirely up on correct terminology.
I've read other references noting the variable quality of replacement 1/2 shaft, so I appreciate your input on that. In your experience, do you think I should I have t he differential rebuilt? And whom can I trust for shafts?
C.

 

Thank you! Very helpful in terms of insight. I think breaking down the differential on my own isn't wise. I can do a lot of things with my '72, but don't have the experience for a diff. At least I'll be informed. Thanks again.
C.

 

If you want the best, contact forum member Gary Ramadei @GTR1999 . He is in CT.

Bair’s Corvette in PA could be an option for you.