Dana 35 gears

[jtaborsky]

I am in the process of regearing my 1992 explorer front differential to 4.10. I ordered the new ring and pinion from RockAuto. My question is this:

The gears that showed up are the opposite cut from the factory. They are listed as for the 1992 Explorer Dana 35 front axle, but I think they are meant to be for the Jeep Dana 35 rear axle. Obviously the ring gear that I was sent will match the pinion that I as sent, so the vehicle should still move with the set I was sent. Is the ring/pinion direction set up to be sturdier in forward than reverse? Am I able to use the set I was sent?

Part: 2020487
Here is a link to the product:
http://www.rockauto.com/catalog/moreinfo.php?pk=4956537&cc=1119619&jnid=545&jpid=26

Any input will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.
- Joe

 

[Captain Ledd]

If it's cut the opposite way they will not fit, period. You need to send them back. The teeth will sit on top of each other instead of fitting in-between each other. You can test this by laying them out on the table and moving the pinion from where it meshes, to the opposite side in roughly the same spot, you'll see what I mean.

The high pinion differential type will be stronger when going forward in the front application. The low pinion front will be stronger when pulling in reverse (which has it's advantages as well). But since you have the high pinion housing, that's the gearset you'll need.

The numbers are listed for a front application on their website. I got the same for a 1992 Explorer. But discrepancies happen, so if you're absolutely, 100% certain, that these are cut the wrong way, I'd give them a call.