Rear axle question.

diggin · 06-17-2008, 07:40 AM

Just wondering if the Astro's rear end is the same as an S10 , I want to purchase a locker from e-bay that lists it's application for a 7.625'' with a ratio of 3.08 and up with 26 spline side gears. I opened mine up and it is an 3.42 ratio , the one I have is the limited slip but would the locker still fit ? My axle is starting to whine when the pedal is pressed so I would like to fix it.

brcidd · 06-17-2008, 08:23 AM

I just replaced the entire rear axle assembly on my '94 Astro with a salvage yard unit- for $125 from another '94 Astro with only 87k on it- worked great- easy to replace- just had to break loose the parking brake cables- all else came loose and fit in fine- mine had about 224K on itand the rear gear had shattered.....So why don't you go that route....something to consider

bscoffey · 06-17-2008, 07:51 PM

i think the spline count on 95 or 96 and newer are 28 spline older ones are 26 spline. I'm pretty sure the axles are the same as a s10.Mine started to whine and I replaced the diff, gears and bearings.don't get the kit most are made in china. buy individuals try to get american made. I put the kit in mine now i have to replace with timkin from auto zone

CD Smalley · 06-18-2008, 06:31 AM

Bzzzt. S-10 rearends will not work. The Astro/Safari rear-end is offset to the right. The right axle is shorter than the left. Get under their and take a look you'll see what I mean. Take a tape measure too....

bscoffey · 06-18-2008, 02:23 PM

sorry i didn't make myself clear mr smalley.diggn said he opened his rear up thus i took it as he was trying to replace the diff in which the s-10 diff is the same as the astro(7.5 and 7.6 respectfully) and some trans ams & camaros. I'll try to do better next time

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