98 2wd and 99 AWD gear ratio

[Jinmajay]

What are the chances that the rear end in my 98 2WD will fit in the new 99 AWD?

Someone said that the RPO code is GU5 for 3.23 and GU6 is for 3.42 gears. Is that correct?

I just bought the 99AWD with 140k on it for 2K but it turns out there are several things that need done to it. Someone had installed a JY rear end and the bottom clamps are for a larger diameter axle housing. I believe it has 3.42 gears in it. The cover is bent a bit and leaking and the shaft seal is leaking. I have Timberlands, new tires, brakes on the 98 and I would like to swap the whole axle out instead of changing the seal.

Thanks for the info,
j

[Jinmajay]

Both vans have the GU6 3.42 RPO code. So I think i'm ok. I will jack the van up, remove the drive shaft and rotate the tire one full turn and count the turns of the yoke to make sure that they are the same. I think I have to block the opposing wheel for this to work right, right?

[ihatemybike]

If they are both the same gear ratio it should be a direct swap.

[LiftedAWDAstro]

I have never had any luck spinning the tires to find ratios. I find it is much easier to pull the covers and inspect the gears for issues and get the actual ratio.

Either way the axles are interchangeable. The clamps as well as u-joints and brake all will fit.

[Jinmajay]

Great! Thanks to both.I'll get right on it once the snow and ice clears.