Well...I can hear that faint whine starting again in my diff (that wud be #3 if it goes), so I'm gonna start exploring my options. The 10 bolt obviously doesnt like my driving style!!!
If I were to change my whole rear end - and I'd like it to be a one time affair - what would I look for, who makes the best bolt-and-go complete piece (axles, diff, carrier...etc).

 

If you’re interested in a GM 14-Bolt Conversion, Drivetrain dot com has a bolt-in assembly for GM trucks using your original backing plates, brakes, and 6 lug wheels. I have no idea as to their asking price, as they say contact them for prices. You do at least get to option out what style of carrier and gear ratio you want and for people who don’t have the time to search out an original AXN 14-Bolt axle or have the time and skills required to convert an axle from another application, it just may be what the doctor ordered. Of course there are other options out there as well.

 

The 10.5" ring gear/6lug unit they show would not fit an Avalanche. The axle width would be different and it is missing all the bracketry for the Av 5-link suspension. Looks like it is also set up for drum brakes.

You could get a 9.5" unit out of an Escalade and have it shortened unless you don't mind your wheels sticking out an extra 3/4" per side. Not sure what has to be done to hook up the park brakes. Should be more of these around by now. Add the cost of a locking diff and possibly new gears to match your front gears to the price you pay for the rear end. Contact supersub for info on this mod.

I had a 9.5" fab'd up with all the Avalanche bracketry starting with a housing out of a 90's 3/4 ton van. Came set up with new gears, bearings, axles and a Truetrac. Contact axisT6 for info on this mod.

 

You're absolutely correct, I'm so hung up on the trucks that I didn't pay attention that he was refering to an axle for his Avalanche.....sorry.

 

Thnx guys...what DrX...how much wud that be vs a Strange or similar custom unit?

 

have the rear built right and you shouldnt be having issues. 10 bolts do live and have lived with ppl making more power

unless your totally destroying and bending axle tubes and etc i wouldnt upgrade. there is plenty you can do to the 10 bolt to make it strong and be alot less hassle then swapping rears

 

I doubt that any of the custom rear end builders will make a unit with the Av bracketry- probably just a bare housing. My setup was around $2000 with all the new parts installed. Not sure what Esky rear ends ar going for these days.

 

Why not get the 10.5 that comes in the 2500 series Avalanches?

 

Can u give me more details? I've already put an Auburn posi, and just replaced my ring & pinion for the second time (pinion was actually cracked up the length!). I cant put a girdle on the Avv (due to the sways/panhard), and though I finally found a stronger & deeper aftermarket cover that did fit, once I put the shorter springs on, that had to goo too as it was making contact with the sway.

 

Thats a thought, but I think its an 8 bolt pattern? I guess thats one of the conversions that wud need done? This is another thing I know NOTHING about, and going to have to learn. I only wanna do this once if I go down this road...