2nd gen 5 lug auto: No issue installing 4.56 gears from 95-04 3rd member + locker

Hi all,

I have a 2009 5 lug auto and a couple months back I installed the 3rd member from a 1st gen that had 4.56 gears. At the same time I installed a lock-rite "lunchbox" locker. I'm a hobby mechanic so "proceed at your own risk", but I can report that it is pretty straight forward and the new gears makes the truck so much better to drive. It should have come from the factory like this.

Anyways, below are the parts I used and some resources but first some additional notes:

• I've driven it 600 miles no issues or weirdness.
• The 1st gens don't have the big adjuster in the cap. So that can be ignored, when you're watching the locker install videos.
• I didn't do any real measurements and reattached the ring gear with an impact (so their not "torqued", but their on there good)
• If your going to do the locker, I strongly recommend an impact wrench. You can hold the diff with one hand and take the ring gear off.
• The yokes on the 3rd members are different, very easy to switch, with a puller and impact.

Parts:

• ebay 1st gen 8.4

• Locker

Resources:

• 3rd member
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ydVHbKMuITM
• locker
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ycWd0i22Ytc
    
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEzzjnFeSEU
    
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9TEJWpstPWY

Do it!! You won't regret it!

Best!