2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Should I switch to a dually setup?

[Loghead]

I have a chance to obtain a Dana 80 axle - the whole setup - to use under my 97 2500 4x4. Cheap money, the only fly in the ointment being that I'd have to change the ring and pinion to 4.10s.

I just don't know if it's worth the hassle (if I may say so) - and I'll admit there are probably factors of which I'm totally unaware.

The '70 that's under the truck now badly needs a pinion seal. That's all as far as I know - gears seem tight, though I haven't opened it up to put a dial indicator on it for a real evaluation.
Now if the '80 were not a dually setup then it would be a no brainer.

I'd love to hear from those who've owned/driven both long-term.

 

[phantomusa]

To do it correctly you need dually wheels and a dually bed due to extra width of that diff and wheels
I'm not sure about the face to face width between the 70 and 80 diff if they mesure the same and the yolk is the same should be almost a bolt in swap

 

[GAmes]

Pinion seals are relatively cheap, even if you task it to a shop. Ring & pinions are way more expensive and not worth the added cost IMO. You wouldn't need duelly wheels, but the ones you have would stick out from the wheel opening I believe.