Originally Posted by BeastWhale

Hey all - I need some advice on a 1996 Tahoe (last 8 vin TJ327978). I bought in used with 212k to pull our popup trailer. It's 4WD and I've discovered that the gear ratio in back is not what it should be. The Speedometer is way off (registers about 60mph while moving 50mph) and the rear tires squeal (drag) in 4WD on pavement. (REALLY wish i'd tested on pavement b4 buying, but it's mine now.) I haven't had anyone look at it yet, but I'm pretty sure that someone replaced the rearend with one that doesn't match the front and there are yellow grease pencil marks that look suspiciously like they were made in a wrecking yard. Specs say the rearend should be 3.42 for this vin. Assuming I want to fix this, what should I do here? I'd like to get away as cheaply as I can, given that I don't plan to drive it daily. does it make more sense to have someone rebuild the rearend with gears that match the front? or shoud I be looking for a replacement rearend? if raplacement is the best option, how do verify the ratio of a rearend before I buy it? FYI - I'm in Phoenix, AZ and there are a few parts yards around, so I think I'll have a few to choose from.

Thanks for whatever input you can give.