How can I identify an HO52 differential out of the vehicle?
I have one located on the shelf, supposedly 68-72 vintage,
has 10-41 on the ring gear
What you are describing is an HO72 rear differential that can be swapped with the HO52 . To identify an Eaton 4:10 HO72 - Turn the carrier around where you can see the end of the pinion shaft on the pinion bearing end, the number 3934647 would be stamped there along with the 10-41 number. The stamping may be faint. The ring gear is stamped 3934641 on the flange with bolt holes, below the gear teeth. You may want a flashlight and a mirror to help view the ring gear stamped number.
Ron