Yukon YK GMVET-CI GM Corvette Independent Rear Differential Complete Rebuild Kit
The YK GMVET-CI from Yukon Gear and Axle is a purpose-built master overhaul kit for the GM Corvette independent rear differential (Ci unit) used in 1963 through 1979 Chevrolet Corvettes. This unique independent rear suspension differential requires specific components, and the YK GMVET-CI delivers every precision part needed for a thorough complete rebuild kit. Timken bearings, a full shim set, all seals, and complete hardware are included. Whether you are restoring a C2, C3, or bridging to the later C3 models, the YK GMVET-CI is the definitive solution for your Corvette independent rear differential rebuild.
Features and Benefits
- Specifically engineered for the GM Corvette independent rear differential (Ci) used in 1963-1979 Chevrolet Corvettes
- Timken carrier bearings and races for precision load handling and extended service life
- Timken pinion bearings and races for accurate pinion depth and smooth, quiet operation
- Complete pinion depth shim set for correct gear mesh and contact pattern
- Complete carrier shim set for proper backlash and bearing preload
- Pinion seal and output seals to prevent fluid leakage
- Ring gear bolts, pinion nut, and hardware for a complete refresh
- Gear marking compound with brush and thread-locking compound included
- Cover gasket included for a leak-free seal
- Compatible with OEM and aftermarket ring and pinion gear sets
- All components quality-verified to Yukon Gear standards
Vehicle Fitment
| Year | Make | Model | Trim |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1963 | Chevrolet | Corvette | Sting Ray |
| 1964 | Chevrolet | Corvette | Sting Ray |
| 1965 | Chevrolet | Corvette | Sting Ray |
| 1966 | Chevrolet | Corvette | Sting Ray |
| 1967 | Chevrolet | Corvette | Sting Ray |
| 1968 | Chevrolet | Corvette | Stingray |
| 1969 | Chevrolet | Corvette | Stingray |
| 1970 | Chevrolet | Corvette | Stingray |
| 1971 | Chevrolet | Corvette | Stingray |
| 1972 | Chevrolet | Corvette | Stingray |
| 1973 | Chevrolet | Corvette | Stingray |
| 1974 | Chevrolet | Corvette | Stingray |
| 1975 | Chevrolet | Corvette | Stingray |
| 1976 | Chevrolet | Corvette | Stingray |
| 1977 | Chevrolet | Corvette | Stingray |
| 1978 | Chevrolet | Corvette | Indianapolis 500 Pace Car |
| 1978 | Chevrolet | Corvette | Silver Anniversary Edition |
| 1979 | Chevrolet | Corvette | Stingray |
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Part Number | YK GMVET-CI |
| UPC | 883584140580 |
| Differential | GM Corvette Independent Rear (Ci) |
| Ring Gear Size | 3.54 in offset (Corvette IRS unit) |
| Bearings Included | Yes (Timken carrier and pinion bearings with races) |
| Seals Included | Yes (pinion seal and output seals) |
| Shim Set | Yes (pinion depth and carrier shims) |
| Warranty | Yukon Gear limited warranty |
What Is Included
- Timken front carrier bearing and race
- Timken rear carrier bearing and race
- Timken inner pinion bearing and race
- Timken outer pinion bearing and race
- Pinion seal
- Output shaft seals
- Complete pinion depth shim set
- Complete carrier shim set
- Ring gear bolt set
- Pinion nut
- Thread-locking compound
- Gear marking compound with brush
- Cover gasket
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the GM Corvette Ci independent rear differential?
The Ci independent rear differential is the cradle-mounted unit used in 1963 through 1979 Chevrolet Corvettes. It features an independent half-shaft setup unique to the Corvette platform. The YK GMVET-CI is specifically designed to rebuild this unit with all required precision components.
Does the YK GMVET-CI fit all C2 and C3 Corvette years?
The YK GMVET-CI covers 1963 through 1979 Corvettes, encompassing the entire C2 generation (1963-1967) and most C3 years (1968-1979). Always verify the specific differential casting in your vehicle to confirm fitment.
Does the YK GMVET-CI include Timken bearings?
Yes. The YK GMVET-CI includes Timken carrier bearings with races and Timken pinion bearings with races for precise, durable performance.
Can I use this kit with a different gear ratio?
Yes. The complete shim set in the YK GMVET-CI allows correct setup for both stock replacement and aftermarket ring and pinion gear ratios.
Is a cover gasket included?
Yes. A cover gasket is included in the YK GMVET-CI kit for a complete, leak-free reassembly.
Will installing the YK GMVET-CI void my warranty under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act?
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a vehicle manufacturer cannot void your warranty simply because an aftermarket component was installed. The warranty is only voided if the manufacturer proves the part caused the failure. Consult your warranty documentation and a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.
What warranty does Yukon Gear offer on the YK GMVET-CI?
Yukon Gear and Axle provides a limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Contact Yukon Gear directly for full warranty terms and conditions.
Is professional installation recommended for the YK GMVET-CI?
Yes. The Corvette independent rear differential requires specialized knowledge and precision measurement. A qualified drivetrain technician familiar with independent rear suspension differentials is strongly recommended.
Installation Instructions
- Raise and support the vehicle safely on jack stands. Drain differential fluid from the Corvette IRS cradle unit.
- Remove the half-shafts and any ancillary components necessary to access the differential.
- Remove the differential cover and clean all mating surfaces.
- Mark bearing caps and housing for correct reinstallation orientation before disassembly.
- Remove carrier bearing caps and extract the differential carrier assembly.
- Press old carrier bearings off the carrier and discard with races.
- Remove the pinion nut and companion yoke, then drive out the pinion shaft.
- Press out old pinion bearings and remove the pinion seal from the housing.
- Clean all bearing bores, threads, and housing surfaces thoroughly.
- Press new Timken pinion bearing races into the housing using appropriate installation drivers.
- Determine the correct pinion shim based on pinion depth measurement. Install the new inner pinion bearing and shim on the pinion shaft.
- Install new outer pinion bearing. Install new pinion seal. Thread on pinion nut and torque to specification while monitoring rotating torque.
- Press new Timken carrier bearings onto the carrier. Install carrier assembly with correct carrier shims to achieve specified backlash per ring and pinion manufacturer's instructions.
- Apply gear marking compound to the ring gear and verify gear contact pattern. Adjust shims as required.
- Torque bearing caps to specification. Install new cover gasket and cover, fill with the correct differential fluid, reinstall half-shafts, and lower the vehicle.
Proposition 65 Warning: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.p65warnings.ca.gov.
Chevrolet Corvette Parts & Accessories
Chevrolet Corvette parts and accessories for every generation are stocked at Black Ops Auto Works. Shop cold air intakes, catch cans, oil separators, cat-back and axle-back exhaust systems, valve-back systems, X-pipes, brake pads, brake rotors, brake ducts, big brake kits, sway bars, coilovers, carbon fiber hoods, splitters, spoilers, mirrors, lighting, and drivetrain parts for C5, C6, C7, and C8 Corvettes, including Stingray, Grand Sport, Z06, ZR1, and Z51 trims. Every product is filterable by year, make, model, trim, engine, and drivetrain so the correct part ships the first time. Black Ops Auto Works carries 1,476 Chevrolet Corvette SKUs across intake, exhaust, brakes, suspension, exterior, and drivetrain categories. What This Collection Covers The Corvette has moved through four modern generations since the C5 launched in 1997, and each one uses different engine architecture, chassis design, and body construction. This collection groups parts confirmed to fit the specific Co...
View Chevrolet Corvette Parts & Accessories Products
Differential Overhaul Kits
Differential Overhaul Kits are stocked at Black Ops Auto Works for Silverado, Sierra, F-150, Super Duty, Ram, Mustang, Jeep Wrangler, Gladiator, Toyota, GM, Ford, Dana, and AAM axle applications. Shop master overhaul kits, differential rebuild kits, pinion bearings, carrier bearings, races, seals, shims, crush sleeves, pinion nuts, ring gear bolts, marking compound, and installation hardware for the correct vehicle and build goal. Every product is filterable by year, make, model, trim, engine, and drivetrain so the correct part ships the first time. Black Ops Auto Works carries 152 Differential Overhaul Kits SKUs across bearings, seals, shims, axle families, carrier setups, gear installations, and rebuild hardware. What This Differential Overhaul Kit Collection Covers Complete rebuild parts for common axles Differential overhaul kits group the wear items and setup hardware needed for a thorough axle rebuild. Depending on the kit, contents can include pinion and carrier bearings,...
View Differential Overhaul Kits Products
Differentials & Components
Differentials and components at Black Ops Auto Works include diff braces, diff covers, rebuild and overhaul kits, differential bushings and mounts, limited-slip differentials, yokes, and final drive gears built for street, towing, off-road, and racing applications. Black Ops Auto Works carries 1,332 drivetrain SKUs from Yukon Gear and Axle, ARB, OS Giken, SuperPro, and Per4mance Development, spanning Hellcat and Trackhawk platforms, trucks, Jeep Wrangler, and sport compacts. What This Collection Covers This collection combines fifteen related differential and drivetrain categories, including diff braces, diff covers and gaskets, rebuild and overhaul kits, install kits, seal kits, bushings, mounts, housings, dropouts, spider gears, yokes, complete differentials, and final drive gears. Product Types in This Collection Shoppers will find billet differential braces for high-horsepower RWD platforms, nodular iron and aluminum diff covers, master overhaul kits, differential-to-cradle ...
View Differentials & Components Products
Drivetrain
Drivetrain parts for high-horsepower Mopar, truck, Jeep, and import platforms are stocked at Black Ops Auto Works. Shop differentials, axles, driveshafts, clutch kits, flywheels, flexplates, shifters, transmission components, ring and pinion gears, differential braces, and driveline hardware for Hellcat, Trackhawk, TRX, HEMI, LS, LT, Coyote, and turbocharged import platforms. Every drivetrain part is filterable by vehicle platform, drivetrain layout, transmission type, and power level so the correct part ships the first time. Black Ops Auto Works carries 4,765 drivetrain SKUs across differentials, axles, clutches, and transmission hardware. What This Category Covers The drivetrain transfers power from the engine to the wheels and includes the transmission, clutch, driveshafts, axles, differentials, ring and pinion gears, wheel hubs, wheel bearings, U-joints, shifters, mounts, and bushings. Upgrading these components improves power delivery, durability, and reliability under incr...
View Drivetrain Products
Yukon Gear & Axle
Yukon Gear and Axle drivetrain parts are stocked at Black Ops Auto Works for GM, Ford, Chrysler, Ram, and Jeep platforms. Shop ring and pinion sets, positraction and locker units, axle overhaul kits, differential covers, driveshafts, and manual transmission rebuild components for Dana 60/61, GM 8.2/8.5/8.6/9.5, Ford 8.8/9/10.25/10.5, and Chrysler 8.25/9.25 inch axles. Yukon parts are proven in extreme-duty use, including King of the Hammers and Moab rock crawling events, and every part here is filterable by axle size, gear ratio, and spline count. Black Ops Auto Works carries 1122 Yukon Gear and Axle SKUs across ring and pinion, differential, and axle rebuild categories. What This Brand Covers Yukon Gear and Axle builds ring and pinion sets, differential carriers, positraction and locking differentials, axle shafts, bearing and seal kits, driveshafts, and manual transmission rebuild components for domestic trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. The brand is best known for supporting extreme-d...
View Yukon Gear & Axle Products


