10 bolt vs. 12 bolt rear

[Highpsi]

Ok so I couldn't think of exactly which board to post this on for a question about diffs, so I hope this is acceptable.

My buddy just bought an old beater 80ish chevy full time 4wd 3/4 ton truck. He just wants the motor out of it and is going to give me the axles if I want them. The rear is definitely a 12 bolt and not sure about the front yet.

I currently have a 10 bolt rear. Can I swap the 12 in easily and this is a good upgrade right? I know I will have to consider gearing and tire size but for now I just want to know if I should get the axles.

Thanks.

[Bent]

It's really up to you, Twelve bolt has a larger ring gear than the ten but it also has a weak pinion bering and they fail often. the ten bolt has a stronger inner pinion bearing than the twelve and the pinion diameter is also bigger.But if you keep the ten,and plan to wheel it,know that the axletubes can spin on the centersection and should benotched and rewelded for strength.If you are looking for beef i would say get a dana 44.

[Highpsi]

Thanks Bent. I think I will leave things alone then if it will not be a good upgrade. Maybe I can just remove, notch and weld the tubes on my 10 as you suggest.