How do I know what Chevy differential I have?

Identifying Your Chevy Differential
To determine what type of Chevy differential you have, there are a few methods you can use:
1. Check the Differential Tag or RPO Code: The most accurate method is to identify the differential using the tag or RPO (Regular Production Option) code. The tag is usually located in the glovebox or door jamb of the vehicle. It contains information about the specific equipment and specifications of your vehicle, including the differential. You can refer to the GM RPO Axle Identification Codes for more information.
2. Visual Identification: If your differential does not have an identification tag or has been modified by a previous owner, visual identification can help. You can visually inspect the differential to determine its shape, cover bolts, distinctive features, or axle tube stamp. This method may require removing the cover (or third member) to determine the gear ratio and differential/traction device type.
3. Consult a Dealer or Differential Expert: If you’re still unsure about the type of differential you have, you can reach out to a Chevy dealer or a differential expert. They can provide guidance and help you identify the specific differential based on your vehicle’s make, model, and other specifications.
Remember, accurate differential identification is crucial when it comes to differential repairs or ratio changes. It ensures that you get the right parts for your specific differential.
I hope this helps you identify your Chevy differential! Let me know if you have any other questions.

How do you determine differential type?

How to Identify Your Differential and Axle Type

1. Cover Bolt Count. Since most differentials have a unique cover bolt pattern i.e. 10-bolt, 12-bolt, or 14-bolt, counting them up will narrow the field and help you with identification.
2. Axle Flotation.
3. Get Your Spline In Line.
4. Spec Out Your Hub.
5. Pinion Size & Ring Gear Diameter.

What size differential do I have?

If the ID tag or stamp is missing or unreadable, differentials can be identified by the number of cover bolts, the distinctive shape of the cover, the number of ring gear bolts, and ring gear diameter. They can also be identified by whether the center section is an integral or dropout design.

What rear end does my Chevy 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 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.

How do I find my differential gear ratio?

The calculation uses the number of teeth in the ring gear and divides it by the number of teeth in the pinion gear to provide you with a “[result] to 1” ratio. For example, if the pinion gear has 41 teeth, and the ring gear has 11 teeth, the ratio would be calculated as 41/11, which is equal to 3.73 = 3.73:1.

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.

How do I identify my rear differential?

Visual Differential Identification
Without an ID tag, differentials are identified by the number of cover bolts, the distinctive shape of the cover, the number of ring gear bolts, and ring gear diameter. They can also be identified by whether the center section is an integral or dropout design.

How do I know if I have 8.8 or 9.75 rear end?

On the passenger’s side upper and lower corners, there’s two semi-circular divots that can easily be seen when looking at the cover from straight on. While the Super 8.8’s cover has a bulge for the ring gear, it’s not anywhere near as pronounced as the 9.75’s.

How do I tell what gear ratio my Chevy Vin has?

Once you have located the VIN sticker you can get to work decoding it and finding out your car’s gear ratio.

How do I identify my GM axle?

GM RPO Axle Codes
To find the axle gear ratio of any GM vehicle, locate the RPO sticker (typically located in the glove box) and write down any codes starting with F, G, or H.