Rear gears/speedo calibration

[XS TORQ]

I want new gears, but I don't like the idea of cutting into the wiring to calibrate the speedo. Is there a way of doing this by changing the speedo gear in the tranny? That is how I have done it in the past (albiet in old 4x4's). Any input would be appreciated!
Also, I have heard that the rear end is different for some years... I am thinking about buying a complete rear end (so I would have the stock one for the future) - JonB does the YEAR MATTER???? Mine is a 94....

 

[GTS Dean]

Mark,

The tone ring on the output shaft provides 10 pulses per revolution. I don't think that is enough to allow a person to simply change the ring when you change ring and pinion ratios.

The Gen1 cars have a Dana 44 with a ladder bar bolted to the side of the pinion to control torque windup. The GTS & later RT's went to a Dana Super 44, which has a larger ring gear and some tougher internals. The pinion has an aluminum beam bolted transversely on top of it with bushings at both ends, similar to those at the outer ends of the rear cover casting. The entire differential on the later cars is hung between the upper rear frame longitudinals.

So yes, the year does matter.

 

[XS TORQ]

Dean,
Are you saying (as Jon suggests) that I could get a newer rear end for my car? Sounds like it is a stronger assembly if it will fit.
Thanks for all the info!
PS: What gears to use (vendor) Dana?
PPS: Has anyone done business w/
Drive Train Specialists
26400 Groesbeck Highway
Warren, MI 48089

Just curious.

 

[Marv S]

Insist on Dana/Spicer gears.

 

[GTS Dean]

I'm not sure about the interchangeability between the generations. Ask Dan Cragin, HMS, TNT, etc.