How do I identify my Chevy differential?

To identify your Chevy differential, you can follow these steps:
1. Check the Service Parts Identification tag: Look for the RPO (Regular Production Option) codes on the Service Parts Identification tag located in the glovebox or the driver’s side door jamb (B-Pillar). These codes contain valuable information about your Chevy vehicle, including the differential type and gear ratio.
2. Refer to the GM RPO Codes: The RPO codes can help you identify the rear end gear ratio. These codes are usually located on the placard labeled Service Parts Identification inside the driver’s door panel or glove box. The RPO codes starting with the letter F are specifically related to axle identification, differential type, and gear ratio.
3. Visual identification: If the differential has been modified or the identification tags are missing or unreadable, you can visually identify the differential. Here are some visual indicators for different Chevy differentials:
– 8.2-inch Chevy 10-bolt: Look for a pair of long flat areas on the front side of each axle tube. The 8.2-inch differential does not have lugs like the 8.5-inch differential.

– 8.5-inch and 8.6-inch Chevy 10-bolt: These differentials are extremely stout and effective. They can be identified by the number of cover bolts, the distinctive shape of the cover, the number of ring gear bolts, and the ring gear diameter. The 8.5-inch differential may have irregular-shaped or round covers, but it does not have lugs like the 8.2-inch differential .

– 12-bolt Chevy differential: The Chevy 12-bolt differential is known for its ruggedness and reliability. It has established itself as the preeminent rear differential for GM muscle cars. The 12-bolt differential can be visually identified by its distinctive shape and features.
Remember, these methods of identification are generally accurate, but visual identification may be necessary if the differential has been modified by a previous owner.

What Chevy rear end do I have?

You can typically find your RPO code on driver side door panel or glove box. General Motors rear end differentials are referred to by the diameter of the ring gear, i.e. 7.5 inch, 8.5 inch, 10.5 inch. Our experts will help you find the correct ring and pinion set for your particular application.

How do you read a differential tag?

Gives most of the Fords will have the same format. So your super duties your f-150 is your Mustangs. Pretty much follow the same setup. You’ll have the ratio you’ll have the differential. Diameter.

How do I know what GM rear end I have?

Box cars. They might be in the glove box or they might be under the spare tire cover in the trunk. So you open your glove box door. And you’re gonna see this little sticker. Here.

Can I get my gear ratio from VIN number?

The gear ratio in a car’s VIN number is easy. All you need to do is find the VDS part of the VIN. This is located between the fourth and eighth characters.

How do I know what Chevy differential I have?

The most accurate differential identification is provided by the bottom line of the tag number or axle tube stamp.

Where do I find my GM axle code?

you guessed it, Axle and Differential specs. The GM RPO Codes label is usually located inside the glove box or on the Driver’s Side Door Jamb (on the B-Pillar). The silver placard will be labeled “Service Parts Identification” and includes a bunch of three-digit codes.

Can you tell gear ratio from VIN?

You don’t. That information is not contained in the VIN, UNLESS a specific model only gets one rear end ratio. VIN tells country of manufacture, vehicle make, class, engine type, size, date of manufacture, plant and serial number. That is the ONLY information contained by the VIN.

What type of rear differential do I have?

The easiest way to tell if you have an open differential is to jack up the car and spin one of the rear tires. If the other wheel spins in the opposite direction, you have an open differential. If it spins in the same direction, you have a limited slip differential, or LSD.

How do you find the differential code?

the differential should have a stamped 3 character code on the bottom of it(M98, M85,etc). You can also check the driver door jam for the code that is stamped on the identification plates. Sounds like you don’t have the car to look at, so check the stampings on the diff.

How do I identify my axle?

Sprung and Torflex axle labels can be found on the side of the axle facing your rear bumper. The axle label provides critical manufacturing information, including the axle serial number, axle capacity, and axle build information. Locating your axle label will help ensure that you identify your axle correctly.