Installing 3.55 diff
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 654
Likes: 18
From: Linthicum MD
Installing 3.55 diff
I seem to have a little problem.I am converting from a 2.59.The local corvette shops are telling me they dont have time to intall them for another month.They tell me it will take them 5-7 hours.I was planning on getting the whole fully completed rear from mid american.Would it really take them that long to do a swap?Or are they giving me the run around 
? This is one thing I have no experience in doing so some insite would be greatly appreciated.Thanks.(oh by the way,I have a 93)
? This is one thing I have no experience in doing so some insite would be greatly appreciated.Thanks.(oh by the way,I have a 93)
Race Director
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 12,518
Likes: 19
Most shops in my area get $250-$325 to install gears. This assumes all parts by customer and you carry in the rear. I have done a half dozen in my garage and typically spend 6-7 hrs. I am not a pro. So based on my areas labor prices I would say the time he quoted you may be fair. As far as waiting a month, most shops in my area jerk you around much longer than that. My 1st set of gears took 7 months to get installed by a shop. These reasons are why some people opt to just write the big check to mid america and others. Good luck either way.
Race Director
Joined: Sep 2000
Posts: 17,298
Likes: 33
From: The Top of Utah
Originally Posted by steve9899
Sounds like the poster is asking about swapping pumpkins and both responses are about swapping ring and pinion.
I haven't swapped a pumpkin myself, but it should not be hard. Weekend job.
I haven't swapped a pumpkin myself, but it should not be hard. Weekend job.
I was planning on getting the whole fully completed rear from mid american.Would it really take them that long to do a swap?Or are they giving me the run around ?
?
to me! You can DO this. It will take YOU a lot more than 5-7 hours, but you'll save $400.00, minimum. Plan the weekend. One day to remove and one to reassemble. It's a fair amount of work, but it will give you a chance to get "up close and personal" with your Corvette. It will turn out very satisfying, and than you can brag, "I did it myself!". Just don't forget the grease and GM posi additive. OH yeah, and speedo correction.RACE ON!!!
