AWD Front Differentials

[ihatemybike]

Anyone know/have pics of the difference between the 1997-98 and 1999-2002 front diffs? I know the front drive shaft is longer on the 1999-2002. Is the added length due to a change in the diff case or transfer case design? Did the mounting flanges change?

[ihatemybike]

Been looking on the net for the parts needed to rebuild Grumpy's front diff and came upon something very interesting. According to http://www.parts.com the internals of the front diff are the same 1990-2005. Thus I conclude, should be able to find any front diff in good condition and be able to rebuild Grumpy's.

Also, the only difference between the 1997-98 and 1999-2005 diffs is the companion flange.

Parts.com 97 Astro front diff


And just to kick myself in the butt, if I would have spent less than $20 on seals and took the time to install them when the weather was better I could have saved myself all this headache.

[hausdok]

How about the 98 diff swap to one from same or 97 blazer. Will this work? My 91 took one ok. Did turn it into a rwd only but it carried me down the road for 5 more years or more. Do they have a 4wd switch in the blazers that year? My buddy had an oldsmobile blazer type (silloette?) and it was set up like a awd astro with the viscous transfer case. Guy in Minnesota has one but hasn't called or written to let me know for sure if he has the GT4 or not. Am anxiously waiting....

[LiftedAWDAstro]

Yes you can use the front diff from an S-10 blazer. You won't have AWD anymore though unless you switch the axle disconnect or use the outer stub and axle shaft from the Astro diff. For a 98 with the viscous transfer case, you may very well destroy the t-case running with no front diff. You will also find your van will not stay put if you park on a hill unless you set the parking brake.