Does anybody know where I can get a set of 3.23 gears for a 1970 Olds Type "O" rear end (with the 12 bolt cover and the 10 bolt differential inside)? I know I can get 3.42s and 3.90 gears. I would like to get a set of 3.23s if possible. Thanks.

 

You would need to locate an original GM set. I don't remember any of the aftermarket companies making 3.23s.

So where can you get the 3.42 and 3.90 gears? I thought they were out of production.

 

A company called "Liberty Gear". They have the gears, the bearings, seals and crush sleeve, as well as Limited Slip differentials.

 

There are no aftermarket 3.23s & the OEM gears only work on the 3.08 / 3.23 carrier. Be sure you know exactly what you have & exactly what you need before you start spending money.

 

I have a 3.08 carrier. Installed 3.42 gears some time ago from Liberty gear. Want to step back a little. May go back to the 3.08s.

 

The 3.08s may be a better choice if you want to "step back". I remember a few years ago I was considering going from 3.23 to 3.42 and someone pointed out that the difference was only ~6% so not really worth the bother. 3.08s would be ~10% change, which you might actually notice.

edit:
You may not have any other choice as Liberty's web site does not show 3.23 gears for the O-Type, only 3.42, 3.90, and 4.10:
http://www.libertygearandaxle.com/ca...M%208.5%20Olds

 

The 3.42s 3.90 & 4.10s are the same Richmond gears that many vendors sell. Problem is no one has them in stock.


You went to 3.42s & now you want to go back? Just put a taller tire out back & you will lower the effective ratio to that of a 3.23. As pointed out swapping to a 3.23 from a 3.42 is a waste of time & money.

 

Not really fair to say 6% is a waste of time and money. If 3.23 is the perfect ratio for you, have at it. Some people are into subtle differences. Not that 6% is all that subtle. I'd like to get a 6% raise this year, and if I do, I'm not going to complain!

Several years ago I went from 3.23 to 3.90, largely because I thought 6% wasn't worth it. Many's a time I wish I had gone for 3.42 instead. The 3.90s are fun on the track, but the engine's got enough torque that 3.42 would be plenty fun around town -- and much better on the highway.

I just wish Oldsmobile had done a 3.55, 3.64, or 3.73.

 

Do any of you all have an opinion on luck with using used gearsets?

 

The drivetrain vendors still list the Richmond gears for the O-axle,but you will find that ALL of them are out of stock.
I have a set of GM 3:23's that I would be willing to work some sort of trade for your 3:42's.

 

Do you still have your 3.23 gears? I know this post is a little old. Thanks.

 

I haven’t seen posts from Brian for quite a while. You might be better to pm member Monza. He is still active here.