What is the stock rear-end in a 3.8 Camaro? Also whats better a 3.23 or a 3.42?

 

I thought 3.23 are stock? I hear more about plp upgrading to 3.42

 

Well the reason I ask is because according to my VIN # I have 3.42 gears, and I thought 3.23s were stock. I don't know much about rear-ends.

 

What is your GU code -- that will validate your stock gear. It varies by options and year.

My '02 RS has 3.42 gears stock, GU6 is the RPO code designating that -- I have the original paperwork showing it.

The 3.42 should give you better pickup over the 3.23, but would not be as important in a LS1 due to its inherent torque.

 

Awesome, I did a VIN # Lookup again on my '02 and this is what it returned for GU Code: "GU6 AXLE,REAR,3.42 RATIO 3.42R(GU6)"

Thanks!

Oh and a bit off topic but do you know what
"1SB PACKAGE-OPTION 02 (1SB)
1SZ PACKAGE OPTION- (1SZ)" are?

 

So are 3.42s fairly decent or should I think about upgrading to a posi-track rear-end? The car is more for fun than performance.

 

Only way it would help is if you are spinning a lot. With a V6 that means poor roads, turning from a stop, things like that.

 

Thanks Gorn, I think I'll leave the rear-end the way it is since I don't have that problem.

 

3.4 must have the 3.23 then. that's what mine reads.

 

Y87 V6s came with an LSD carrier, and I have one due to be installed soon in my RS... You don't need a new rear-end to upgrade, just a new carrier.

What have you done to the car so far? Honestly, I would add a Borla adjustable cat-back and SLP CAI before worrying about the rear-end... Even then I would do SLP Bilstein shocks, SS sways, STB and SFCs first... Suspension improvements ratchet up the fun factor a lot, unless you just enjoy straight lines...