The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Driveline 52 Chevy 3600 Rear End 3.73

I have a 52 Chevy 3600. Wanting to do the T5 transmission change. Best rear end is the 3.73. I believe from other posts and research, the rear end is an Eaton HO52 with 4.57. The tires are 245/75/16 with 8 lugs and the axles are 8 lugs as well. Previous posts indicate that there is no gear change out for the Eaton to make it 3.73. What is the best replacement rear end get a 3.73 and keep the same tires. Current transmission is the 4 speed granny with torque tube. I will have to replace the drive shaft as well.

A 4:10 rear is your ONLY choice .

There is NO 3:73 rear that fits an Eaton HO52 .

You should try the gears you have first before changing rear axles.
It’s sometimes difficult to rely on other peoples explanations on “best gear ratio” because so many variables, big ones being driving style, local terrain, and how you use the truck, what you haul, or always empty...

If you want to change axles anyhow then the GM 14 bolt is the most logical choice for many reasons.
Info here.
https://www.stovebolt.com/ubbthread.../14-bolt-axle-swap-info.html#Post1249600

The advise above is mirrored by my experience,use 4.10s to replace the factory 4.57's. That said, do lots of research on T5's as there are many variations in gear ratios, speedometer drives and even bell housing bolt patterns. The best for our use will have a mechanical speedometer drive and a .72 od (5th gear) and be original to a Chevrolet S10 from the mid to late 80's.

This page is good resource as is our own member, lugnutz. All of His post have a link to tons of great T5 info he's developed and shares.

Good Luck, RonR

I just swapped out my 5.14 pumpkin for a 4.10. I gained 6 mph at 50 mph. So when the Speedo reads 50 I’m doing 56.

I don’t think your going to get much change going from 4.57 to 4.10.

Don