West Coast Differentials has been distributing quality differential and axle parts since 1982. We believe that our exceptional customer service and product knowledge is what sets us apart from the competition. Give us a try, we think you'll be glad you did!
The most current parts and application information can always be found here on our website or by calling one of our differential parts experts. All of the parts we sell are also used every day in our busy service shop. This gives us confidence in the quality of the parts we sell.
Defining Differential Carrier Breaks
Differential carriers are designed to accommodate a range of Ring & Pinion gear ratios for the various tire sizes and vehicle applications associated with them. As the numerical ratio of a gear set increases, the diameter of the pinion gear gets smaller. The reduced size of the pinion gear requires an increasingly thicker ring gear to keep the gear surfaces meshed properly.
It becomes more economical at some point to change the carrier deck height, so that the ring gear is thinner, and requires less material. The illustration above indicates the different carrier deck heights for a Dana 44 differential.
The point at which a different carrier is needed is referred to as a “Carrier Break”. The Gear Ratio at which Carrier Breaks occur varies, depending on the type of differential. For example, if you have a Dana 44 axle with a gear ratio of 3.73 and want to install a 3.92 or numerically higher gear set, you will need a different carrier. The Carrier Break for the Dana 44 is therefore referred to as 3.73 / 3.92.
We stock open carriers, limited-slip units and lockers for both sides of most carrier breaks.
Ready to order? Our Gear & Axle experts are ready to assist at (800) 510-0950
Differential Deck Heights
The chart below lists the Carrier Breaks and Deck Heights for various differential models, as well as the range of gear ratios that work with each of the carriers available for each model.
Differential Carrier Deck Heights | |||
Model 20 | 2.73 & Down 1.600″ | 3.08 & Up 1.800″ | |
Model 35C | 3.31 & Down 1.452″ | 3.55 & Up 1.637″ | |
Dana 30 | 3.54 & Down 1.800″ | 3.73 & Up 1.938″ | |
Dana 44 | 3.73 & Down 2.090″ | 3.92 & Up 2.410″ | |
Dana 60 | 4.10 & Down 2.225″ | 4.56 & Up 2.420″ | |
Dana 70 | 4.10 & Down 2.215″ | 4.56 & Up 2.410″ | |
Dana 80 | 3.73 & Down 2.135″ | 4.10 & Up 2.312″ | |
GM 12 Bolt Passenger | 2.76 & Down 1.410″ | 3.07–3.73 1.825″ | 3.90 & Up 2.188″ |
GM 12 Bolt Truck | 2.73 & Down 1.420″ | 2.76–3.42 1.700″ | 3.73 & Up 1.943″ |
GM 10.5″ 14 Bolt Truck | 4.10 & Down 4.165″ | 4.56 & Up 4.520″ | |
GM ’55 Passenger | 3.70 & Down 2.260″ | 4.10 & Up 2.425″ | |
GM 7.5″ | 3.08 & Down 1.660″ | 3.23 & Up 1.950″ | |
GM 8.2″ | 2.73 & Down 1.615″ | 3.08 & Up 2.00″ | |
GM 8.5″ | 2.56 & Down 1.530″ | 2.73 & Up 1.720″ | |
Toyota 8″ Reverse IFS Clam | 3.73 & Down 1.75″ | 3.91 & Up 1.95″ | |
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For the fastest service, call our Differential Parts Experts at (800) 510-0950 for immediate assistance. We are available to help Monday thru Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM Pacific Standard Time, and most orders placed by 4 PM ship out the SAME DAY!
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