2003 GMC Safari Rear differential

ICYSTRAITLODGE

MEMBER
2003 GMC SAFARI
6 CYL
AWD
AUTOMATIC
108,000 MILES

I have a 2003 Safari (VIN# 1gkel19x13b510423) and I need to replace the rear differential. I do not have access to the differential ration.

A friend of mine has access to a Suburban axel which he says has a 4:73 ratio and 6 bolt wheel lug and he thinks it may fit. If the bolt patterns were able to line up do you believe it would be compatible?

I also have access to a 1998 Astro and am wondering if that differential would fit.

Thanks for your help.

3 Replies

MASTERTECHTIM

MECHANIC
4,749 POSTS

The gear ratio is located on the rear gear itself. Your probably looking at a 3.73 gear ratio, gm does not offer a 4.73. Just remove the rear end cover and turn the ring gear(the larger diameter one) and you will see the numbers stamped on it like 10:41 or 11:41 this is the gear ratio. Divide the first number into the second one and thats the ratio. 10:41 is a 4.10 gear ratio. This is the most accurate way of checking. Other than that I think it will work.

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Monday, October 27th, 2008 AT 6:16 PM

ICYSTRAITLODGE

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When you say: ".I think it will work." Does that include with the knowledge that it has All-wheel Drive? I just do not want to find out that it dstroys the front differential. Thanks.

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Monday, October 27th, 2008 AT 6:45 PM

MASTERTECHTIM

MECHANIC
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The gear ratio must match for sure. The rear end from the astro van is the one to use if you are going to replace the whole unit, I dont think the suburban one will fit but if its the same gear ration and same bolt pattern then you can use the gears from the suburban.

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Monday, October 27th, 2008 AT 6:54 PM