1981 GMC K2500 Differentials

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Keep Your 1981 GMC K2500 in Top Shape with Quality Differentials

Whether you’re repairing or upgrading your Differential, using high-quality parts is key to keeping your 1981 GMC K2500 looking sharp and performing at its best. At Advance Auto Parts we carry a wide selection of dependable options, including Rear Differential Cover Gaskets, Differential Bearings, and Differential Oil. Whether you’re replacing a damaged part or enhancing your truck’s style and protection, you’ll find exactly what you need to get the job done right.

Top-Rated Differentials from Trusted Brands

Looking for a reliable Differential? We’ve got you covered with options from brands you know and trust like National, Motive Gear, and Felpro. For example, National Differentials start at just $10.99 with an average 4.3 star rating. Motive Gear and Felpro offer similar pricing and quality, backed by strong customer feedback. With over 3,000 reviews and a solid 4 star average, you can shop with confidence knowing other GMC K2500 owners approve.

Competitive Prices and Extensive Inventory

The average price for a 1981 GMC K2500 Differential at Advance Auto Parts is around $249.76, with a range that starts at $0.91 and goes up to $1,566.99. With 323 options in stock from 15 trusted brands, finding the right fit is easy. Popular picks like Axle Housing Cover Gasket Oval Shaped 10 Bolt Hole Gasket, Axle Housing Cover Gasket: Irregular Shaped 14 Bolt Hole Gasket, and Axle Housing Cover Gasket: Irregular Shaped 14 Bolt Hole Gasket start at just $8.29 and offer a great balance of form and function.

Explore Related Parts

While you’re upgrading or replacing your Differential, don’t forget to check out other key components like 4WD Components and Universal Joints. At Advance Auto Parts, we’re here to help you keep your 1981 GMC K2500 in peak condition, inside and out.

Essential 1981 GMC K2500 Differentials

Felpro – Axle Housing Cover Gasket Irregular Shaped 10 Bolt Hole Gasket (Part No.RDS 55075)

Axle Housing Cover Gasket Irregular Shaped 10 Bolt Hole Gasket

from

$9.49
Fel-Pro® gaskets are specifically designed for the repair environment to deliver a reliable seal on even the most troublesome applications. Designed for imperfect sealing surfaces and manufactured with proprietary materials, you can count on Fel-Pro for innovative sealing solutions for the real-world repair environment.

Product Features:
  • Meets or exceeds all original equipment specifications
  • Application specific design to ensure a perfect fit
  • Unsurpassed quality you can trust
  • Validated for fit, form and function
  • Each Fel-Pro gasket, no matter how small, is engineered to exacting standards with proprietary design, engineering and manufacturing processes
See More

National – Bearing Race (Part No.382A)

Bearing Race

from

$13.99
Manufactured with premium-grade steel, National taper bearing cups feature crowned raceways to ensure even load distribution.

Product Features:
  • PREMIUM MATERIALS – Precision manufactured using premium-grade steel for outstanding durability and performance
  • SMOOTH ROTATION – Crowned raceways for even load distribution
  • OE-STYLE DESIGN – Engineered to meet OE specifications
  • COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE – Industry-leading coverage for domestic and import applications
  • RIGOROUS TESTING – Comprehensive testing throughout design and development processes by National engineers for quality you can count on
See More

Felpro – Axle Housing Cover Gasket: Irregular Shaped 14 Bolt Hole Gasket (Part No.RDS 55063)

Axle Housing Cover Gasket: Irregular Shaped 14 Bolt Hole Gasket

from

$8.29
Fel-Pro® gaskets are specifically designed for the repair environment to deliver a reliable seal on even the most troublesome applications. Designed for imperfect sealing surfaces and manufactured with proprietary materials, you can count on Fel-Pro for innovative sealing solutions for the real-world repair environment.

Product Features:
  • Meets or exceeds all original equipment specifications
  • Application specific design to ensure a perfect fit
  • Engineered for the sealing repair environment
  • Validated for fit, form and function
  • Unsurpassed quality you can trust
See More

LuK – Repair Kit, Differential (Part No.GDK324-MK)

Repair Kit, Differential

from

$644.99
Each LuK Differential Bearing Kit contains all the OE quality bearings needed for a professional transmission repair. Differential bearing kits are the perfect repair solution for a broken transmission. We carefully select OE quality components for each individual transmission for a professional repair.

Product Features:
  • LuK Differential Bearing Kits are designed to meet or exceed OEM requirements. This will ensure customer satisfaction.
  • LuK Differential Bearing Kits contain the bearings and seals needed to complete the job.
  • LuK Differential Bearing Kits include wear parts such as seals, O-rings, shaft sealing rings, support bearings and spare parts where necessary for eliminating the specific cause of failure.
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Yukon Gear – Air Line Repair Kit, Zip Locker (Part No.34003)

Air Line Repair Kit, Zip Locker

from

$52.99
Air line repair kit, ZIP locker.

Product Features:
  • Air line repair kit
  • Includes 20′ air line and two repair fittings
See More

National – Multi-Purpose Bearing (Part No.R-1581-TV)

Multi-Purpose Bearing

from

$33.99
National Oil Seals & Bearings offer a full line of premium oil seals and bearings.

Product Features:
  • PREMIUM MATERIALS — Precision manufactured using premium-grade steel for outstanding durability and performance
  • STRONG AND DURABLE — Controlled heat treatment process for strength and durability
  • OE-STYLE DESIGN — Engineered to meet OE specifications
  • COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE — Industry-leading coverage for domestic and import applications
  • RIGOROUS TESTING — Comprehensive testing throughout design and development processes by National engineers for quality you can count on
See More

Yukon Gear – GM 10.5′ 14 Bolt Truck Cover Gasket (Part No.23016)

GM 10.5' 14 Bolt Truck Cover Gasket

from

$13.99
14T cover gasket.

Product Features:
  • Cover gasket
  • Fits GM 10.5″ 14 bolt truck
See More

Richmond Gear – Differential Cross Shaft (Part No.CSPD44)

Differential Cross Shaft

from

$26.99
Richmond Gear is the leading manufacturer of professional quality, high-performance drivetrain products. Our complete line of products ranges from high performance ring-and-pinion sets for serious street and racing applications to torque-hungry manual transmissions and components. Richmond Gear products have been winners both at the Daytona 500 and U.S. Nationals for decades. WINNERS RUN RICHMOND!

Product Features:
  • For over 80-years, the Richmond Double-Diamond logo has represented some of the highest quality gears in the racing industry. Winners Run Richmond!
  • The superior quality of Richmond gearsets is a result of outstanding design, world class manufacturing and an extensive testing process that is performed on all products.
  • Richmond performance gearsets have been winners for decades at: NHRA, NMRA, NMCA, Daytona 500, WISSOTA and U.S. Nationals.
  • Richmond Gear is a leading manufacturer of high performance ring and pinion gearsets and drivetrain components, backed by a two year warranty.
  • Engineered to perform faster and be more reliable, Richmond performance drivetrain products are the result of a continuous research and development program combined with state-of-the-art manufacturing capabilities.
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National – Tapered Roller Bearing Cone (Part No.HM804846)

Tapered Roller Bearing Cone

from

$43.99
Manufactured with premium-grade steel, National taper bearing cones feature crowned raceways and rollers to ensure even load distribution.

Product Features:
  • PREMIUM MATERIALS – Precision manufactured using premium-grade steel for outstanding durability and performance
  • SMOOTH ROTATION – Crowned raceways and rollers for even load distribution
  • OE-STYLE DESIGN – Engineered to meet OE specifications
  • COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE – Industry-leading coverage for domestic and import applications
  • RIGOROUS TESTING – Comprehensive testing throughout design and development processes by National engineers for quality you can count on
See More

National – Multi-Purpose Bearing (Part No.A-42)

Multi-Purpose Bearing

from

$44.99
Product Features:
  • CONSISTENT PERFORMANCE: Matched cup and cone components ensure consistent performance
  • PREMIUM MATERIALS: Precision manufactured using premium-grade steel for outstanding durability and performance
  • SMOOTH ROTATION: Crowned raceways and rollers for even load distribution
  • OE-STYLE DESIGN: Engineered to meet OE specifications
  • COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE: Industry-leading coverage for domestic and import applications
  • RIGOROUS TESTING: Comprehensive testing throughout design and development processes by National engineers for quality you can count on
See More

Yukon Gear – Dana 30 / 44 Roll Pin Replacement (Part No.33312)

Dana 30 / 44 Roll Pin Replacement

from

$12.99
Dana 30 & Dana 44 roll PIN, 0.235″ DIA, for cross pin shaft.

Product Features:
  • Roll pin for Dana Spicer 30 and Dana Spicer 44
  • 0.235″ diameter
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Yukon Gear – 8.5" & 8.6" GM Standard Open Pinion Gear Thrust Washer – Also Fits 8.5" Eaton With 0.795" Cross Pin (Part No.33385)

8.5" & 8.6" GM Standard Open Pinion Gear Thrust Washer - Also Fits 8.5" Eaton With 0.795" Cross Pin

from

$10.99
8.5″ & 8.6″ GM standard Open pinion gear Thrust washer. also fits 8.5″ Eaton with 0.795″ cross pin.

Product Features:
  • Pinion gear thrust washer for GM 8.5″ and 8.6″
  • Fits standard open differentials only
  • 0.795″ I.D.
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Yukon Gear – Side Bearing Adjuster Lock For 8.25" GM IFS (Part No.33355)

Side Bearing Adjuster Lock For 8.25" GM IFS

from

$11.99
Side bearing adjuster lock for 8.25″ GM IFS.

Product Features:
  • Side adjuster lock for GM 8.25″ IFS
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Yukon Gear – Super Carrier Shim Kit For Ford 7.5", GM 7.5", 8.2" & 8.5" (Part No.55001)

Super Carrier Shim Kit For Ford 7.5", GM 7.5", 8.2" & 8.5"

from

$59.99
Product Features:
  • Super carrier shim kit for Ford 7.5″, GM 7.5″, 7.625″, 7.6″ IFS, 7.6″ IRS, 7.75″, 8.2″, 8.2″ Buick, Oldsmobile and Pontiac and GM 8.5″ front and rear
  • Interlocking design makes installation much easier
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Yukon Gear – Powr Lok Belleville Clutch Plate, Splined (Part No.16174)

Powr Lok Belleville Clutch Plate, Splined

from

$36.99
Product Features:
  • Belleville plate, splined
  • Fits Dana Spicer 44 Powr Lok
See More

Yukon Gear – Chrysler 9.25" And Dana 44 / 60 Tracloc Clutch Guide Replacement (Part No.33249)

Chrysler 9.25" And Dana 44 / 60 Tracloc Clutch Guide Replacement

from

$8.99
Product Features:
  • Clutch guide for Chrysler 9.25″, Dana Spicer 44 and Dana Spicer 60
  • For Trac Loc positraction applications only
See More

Yukon Gear – Crush Sleeve For Dana 44 JK Rear, 8" GM & 8.25" IFS (Part No.33109)

Crush Sleeve For Dana 44 JK Rear, 8" GM & 8.25" IFS

from

$12.99
Crush sleeve for Dana 44 JK rear, 8″ GM & 8.25″ IFS. Approx 0.625″ long.

Product Features:
  • Crush sleeve for GM 8.0″ and 8.25″ IFS
  • 0.625″ tall
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Motive Gear – Differential Mini Spool (Part No.MSD44-30)

Differential Mini Spool

from

$101.99


Product Features:
  • MINI SPOOL – DANA 44, 30 SPL.
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Pro-King – Differential Ring Gear Bolt (Part No.742E935)

Differential Ring Gear Bolt

from

$1.99
Pro-King is the leading supplier of transmission and driveline products in the aftermarket.

Product Features:
  • Meets or exceeds OE specifications
See More

Yukon Gear – Replacement Yoke For Dana 30, 44, And 50 With Fine Spline And A 1310 U/Joint Size (Part No.41017)

Replacement Yoke For Dana 30, 44, And 50 With Fine Spline And A 1310 U/Joint Size

from

$121.99
Yukon replacement yoke for Dana 30, 44, and 50 with fine spline and a 1310 U/joint size. 3.219″ snap ring span, 1.062″ cap diameter. Outside snap ring. This yoke uses straps. All Yukon yokes come with a one year warranty against manufacturing defects.

Product Features:
  • Fits Dana Spicer 44
  • 26 spline
  • 1310 u-joint size
  • 3.219″ snap ring span
  • 1.062″ cap diameter
  • Outside snap ring design
  • Strap style
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Yukon Gear – Dana 25, 27, 30, 44, Model 20 And Model 35, GM 7.5", 8.2", 8.5", 12P, 12T, C9.25 Rear Cover Bolt (Part No.33286)

Dana 25, 27, 30, 44, Model 20 And Model 35, GM 7.5", 8.2", 8.5", 12P, 12T, C9.25 Rear Cover Bolt

from

$9.99
5/16″-18 cover bolt, Dana Spicer 25, 27, 30 and 44, AMC Model 20 and Model 35, Chrysler 9.25 rear, GM 7.5″, 7.625″, 8.2″, 8.5″, 12 bolt passenger car and truck.

Product Features:
  • Cover bolt for Dana Spicer 25, 27, 30 and 44, AMC Model 20 and Model 35, GM 7.5″, 7.625″, 8.2″, 8.5″ and 12 bolt passenger car and truck.
  • 1/2″ head
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Yukon Gear – Steel Cover For GM 10.5" 14 Bolt Truck (Part No.32345)

Steel Cover For GM 10.5" 14 Bolt Truck

from

$92.99
Product Features:
  • Fits GM 10.5″ 14 bolt truck
  • Steel
See More

Yukon Gear – DiffrlPinSupportBolt (Part No.33582)

DiffrlPinSupportBolt

from

$5.99
DiffrlPinSupportBolt

Yukon Gear – Pinion Depth Shims For 10.5" GM 14 Bolt Truck (Part No.55058)

Pinion Depth Shims For 10.5" GM 14 Bolt Truck

from

$37.99
14T GM pinion shim kit.

Product Features:
  • Pinion depth shims for GM 10.5″ 14 bolt truck
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Yukon Gear – Bearing Race Driver (Part No.56003)

Bearing Race Driver

from

$215.99
Bearing race driver for Dana 44 front (TK 02820). No return.

Product Features:
  • Bearing race driver
  • Fits 02820 race
  • All steel construction
See More

Yukon Gear – Dura Grip For Dana 44, 30 Spline, 3.92 & Up (Part No.26027)

Dura Grip For Dana 44, 30 Spline, 3.92 & Up

from

$809.99
The Yukon Dura Grip provides aggressive yet smooth traction to give you the confidence & performance you need. Get longer life and better traction with the heavy duty Yukon Dura Grip Positraction. The Yukon Dura Grip uses a nodular case and forged 4320 internals for added strength along with composite clutches for high performance and long life. All units are Rebuildable and many offer upgrades to increase aggressiveness for racing applications. Each unit carries a one year warranty against defects.

Product Features:
  • Fits Dana Spicer 44 with 30 spline axles
  • 3.92 ratio and up only
  • 4-spring, clutch style positraction
  • Internal gears are manufactured using forged 4320 steel and cut to provide stronger teeth
  • Fully rebuildable
  • Assembled in the USA
See More

Yukon Gear – Pinion Install Kit For ’89 To ’98 10.5" GM 14 Bolt Truck Differential (Part No.13059)

Pinion Install Kit For '89 To '98 10.5" GM 14 Bolt Truck Differential

from

$404.99
Yukon Pinion installation kits are a terrific solution for gear installation on lower mileage vehicles where the carrier bearings & races can be reused. This kit uses Timken bearings and races along with a high quality pinion seal and small parts. Included in this kit are the pinion bearings and races, pilot bearing (if applicable), crush sleeve (if applicable), complete pinion shim kit, thread locker, and marking compound with brush. Yukon does extensive research for each application to make sure your kit will arrive with all the correct parts you need to install your pinion gear.

Product Features:
  • Fits 1989-1997 GM 10.5″ 14 bolt truck
  • Included are pinion bearings and races, pinion seal, crush sleeve, complete pinion shim kit, and marking compound with brush.
See More

Pro-King – Differential Cross Shaft (Part No.742G673)

Differential Cross Shaft

from

$28.49
Pro-King is the leading supplier of transmission and driveline products in the aftermarket.

Product Features:
  • Meets or exceeds OE specifications
See More

Most Popular Rear Differential Cover Gaskets for 1981 GMC K2500s

Enhance your 1981 GMC K2500 with one of the 6 Rear Differential Cover Gaskets we have in stock, starting at just $3.99.

Mr. Gasket – Differential Gasket (Part No.84B)

Differential Gasket

from

$21.49
Mr. Gasket Axle Housing/Differential Cover or Rear End Gaskets are manufactured from a .047 inch thick cellulose/nitrile composite gasket material for excellent sealing and durability. They are precision die-cut for an excellent fit. Fits 1964-1970 Chevrolet 8.2 inch 10 bolt & 1970-1981 GM 8.5 inch ring gear

Product Features:
  • .047″ thick cellulose/nitrile composite gasket material
  • Precision die cut
  • Reusable
See More

Felpro – Axle Housing Cover Gasket: Irregular Shaped 14 Bolt Hole Gasket (Part No.RDS 55387)

Axle Housing Cover Gasket: Irregular Shaped 14 Bolt Hole Gasket

from

$8.99
Fel-Pro® gaskets are specifically designed for the repair environment to deliver a reliable seal on even the most troublesome applications. Designed for imperfect sealing surfaces and manufactured with proprietary materials, you can count on Fel-Pro for innovative sealing solutions for the real-world repair environment.

Product Features:
  • Meets or exceeds all original equipment specifications
  • Application specific design to ensure a perfect fit
  • Engineered for the sealing repair environment
  • Validated for fit, form and function
  • Unsurpassed quality you can trust
See More

Yukon Gear – GM 10.5′ 14 Bolt Truck Cover Gasket (Part No.23016)

GM 10.5' 14 Bolt Truck Cover Gasket

from

$13.99
14T cover gasket.

Product Features:
  • Cover gasket
  • Fits GM 10.5″ 14 bolt truck
See More

Yukon Gear – 9.5" GM Cover Gasket (Part No.23023)

9.5" GM Cover Gasket

from

$13.99
9.5″ GM cover gasket.

Product Features:
  • Cover gasket
  • Fits GM 9.5″
See More

Pro-King – Differential Cover Gasket (Part No.742G303)

Differential Cover Gasket

from

$3.99
Pro-King is the leading supplier of transmission and driveline products in the aftermarket.

Product Features:
  • Meets or exceeds OE specifications
See More

Pro-King – Differential Cover Gasket (Part No.743B303)

Differential Cover Gasket

from

$3.99
Pro-King is the leading supplier of transmission and driveline products in the aftermarket.

Product Features:
  • Meets or exceeds OE specifications
See More

Best-Selling 1981 GMC K2500 Differential Bearings

Upgrade your K2500 with one of our 8 best-selling Differential Bearings, earning an average 5 stars rating across 13 reviews.

National – Bearing Race (Part No.382A)

Bearing Race

from

$13.99
Manufactured with premium-grade steel, National taper bearing cups feature crowned raceways to ensure even load distribution.

Product Features:
  • PREMIUM MATERIALS – Precision manufactured using premium-grade steel for outstanding durability and performance
  • SMOOTH ROTATION – Crowned raceways for even load distribution
  • OE-STYLE DESIGN – Engineered to meet OE specifications
  • COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE – Industry-leading coverage for domestic and import applications
  • RIGOROUS TESTING – Comprehensive testing throughout design and development processes by National engineers for quality you can count on
See More

National – Bearing Race (Part No.JLM104910)

Bearing Race

from

$10.99
Manufactured with premium-grade steel, National taper bearing cups feature crowned raceways to ensure even load distribution.

Product Features:
  • PREMIUM MATERIALS – Precision manufactured using premium-grade steel for outstanding durability and performance
  • SMOOTH ROTATION – Crowned raceways for even load distribution
  • OE-STYLE DESIGN – Engineered to meet OE specifications
  • COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE – Industry-leading coverage for domestic and import applications
  • RIGOROUS TESTING – Comprehensive testing throughout design and development processes by National engineers for quality you can count on
See More

Driveworks – Taper Bearing Cone (Part No.S-LM-501349)

Taper Bearing Cone

from

$10.99
Value-priced bearing meets all cataloged application requirements.

Product Features:
  • Brand may vary by location
See More

National – Tapered Roller Bearing Cone (Part No.JLM506849A)

Tapered Roller Bearing Cone

from

$38.99
Product Features:
  • PREMIUM MATERIALS: Precision manufactured using premium-grade steel for outstanding durability and performance
  • SMOOTH ROTATION: Crowned raceways and rollers for even load distribution
  • OE-STYLE DESIGN: Engineered to meet OE specifications
  • COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE: Industry-leading coverage for domestic and import applications
  • RIGOROUS TESTING: Comprehensive testing throughout design and development processes by National engineers for quality you can count on
See More

Schaeffler – Bearing – TRB (Tapered Roller Bearing) (Part No.KT36)

Bearing - TRB (Tapered Roller Bearing)

from

$34.49
With advanced load-carrying capacity and compact design, tapered roller bearings are used in wheel bearings, transmissions, differentials, transfer cases and other miscellanous applications. FAG manufacturers over 100 million tapered roller bearings annually.

Product Features:
  • High-precision and High-quality components used in all KITs
  • Coverage of classic and new high-tech solutions for the best system coverage
See More

Schaeffler – Cup (Part No.382A)

Cup

from

$20.79
With advanced load-carrying capacity and compact design, tapered roller bearings are used in wheel bearings, transmissions, differentials, transfer cases and other miscellanous applications. FAG manufacturers over 100 million tapered roller bearings annually.

Product Features:
  • High-precision and High-quality components used in all KITs
  • Coverage of classic and new high-tech solutions for the best system coverage
See More

National – Bearing Race (Part No.25523)

Bearing Race

from

$19.99
Manufactured with premium-grade steel, National taper bearing cups feature crowned raceways to ensure even load distribution.

Product Features:
  • PREMIUM MATERIALS – Precision manufactured using premium-grade steel for outstanding durability and performance
  • SMOOTH ROTATION – Crowned raceways for even load distribution
  • OE-STYLE DESIGN – Engineered to meet OE specifications
  • COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE – Industry-leading coverage for domestic and import applications
  • RIGOROUS TESTING – Comprehensive testing throughout design and development processes by National engineers for quality you can count on
See More

Schaeffler – Cup (Part No.JLM104910)

Cup

from

$11.99
With advanced load-carrying capacity and compact design, tapered roller bearings are used in wheel bearings, transmissions, differentials, transfer cases and other miscellanous applications. FAG manufacturers over 100 million tapered roller bearings annually.

Product Features:
  • High-precision and High-quality components used in all KITs
  • Coverage of classic and new high-tech solutions for the best system coverage
See More

Top-Quality Differential Oil for 1981 GMC K2500s

Choose a high-quality OEM or aftermarket Differential Oil for GMC K2500s and enjoy top-notch performance from $12.99.

Valvoline – MaxLife Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Gallon (Part No.773775)

MaxLife Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Gallon

from

$35.99
Valvoline MaxLife Multi-Vehicle ATF is a full-synthetic formulation with advanced additives to prevent the major causes of transmission breakdown and help extend transmission life.  Developed to help prevent leaks, maximize transmission performance, reduce transmission wear, and maintain smooth shifting longer than conventional fluids. It is suitable for use in a broad range of ATF applications including most Ford, GM, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Hyundai, BMW, Mercedes, Volvo, VW & Audi. Recommended for use in the following applications: GM DEXRON-II, DEXRON-III, DEXRON-VI, Ford MERCON LV, Toyota/Lexus Type T, T-II, T-IV, WS, Honda/Acura, ATF-Z1, Nissan/Infiniti Matic-D, Matic-J, Matric-K, Matic-S, Hyundai/Kia SP-II, SP-III, SP-IV, SPH-IV, BMW 7045E, ETL 8072B, LA2634, LT71141, Allison C-4, Mercedes Benz NAG-1, Volvo 1161521, 1161540, 97340, 1273.41, and VW/Audi G-052-025-A2, G-052-162-A1. For CVT applications Valvoline recommends Valvoline Full Synthetic CVT Fluid.

Product Features:
  • Formulated with full-synthetic base oils and long life friction modifiers to help improve smooth shifting, eliminate slippage and shudder, prevent clutch wear and improve drivability longer than conventional fluids
  • High-performance seal conditioners maintain and preserve the elasticity of seals to help prevent leaks in high mileage transmissions
  • Developed with anti-wear technology to help improve transmission durability
  • Engineered with a proprietary blend of base oils and advanced additives to provide better oil flow at low temperatures and greater film protection at higher temperatures
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Valvoline – High Performance Transmission & Differential Gear Oil: Conventional 80W-90, 1 Quart (Part No.VV831)

High Performance Transmission & Differential Gear Oil: Conventional 80W-90, 1 Quart

from

$12.99
Valvoline High Performance Gear Oil is an extreme pressure gear lubricant formulated with quality base oils and superior additives that helps protect against severe temperatures, shock loads, scuffing, scouring, corrosion and pitting in high speed, high load, high torque and high horsepower conditions.

Product Features:
  • Formulated for reliable gear protection
  • Protects against severe temperatures to help extend service life
  • Formulated with extreme-pressure additives to minimize gear wear from shock loads
  • Helps protect against gear wear from scuffing, scouring, corrosion and pitting
  • Recommended for conventional hypoid differentials and non-synchronized manual transmissions in passenger cars, light trucks, sport utility vehicles, vans and heavy-duty trucks where an API-GL5 or GL-4 fluid is specified
  • PLEASE NOTE: Valvoline recommends SynPower Full Synthetic Gear Oil for limited slip differentials
See More

Yukon Gear – 3 Qt – 80W90 Conventional Gear Oil With Posi Additive (Part No.15003)

3 Qt - 80W90 Conventional Gear Oil With Posi Additive

from

$57.99
3 Qt. Penzoil 80W90 conventional gear Oil. W/ bottle of Posi additive.

Product Features:
  • Includes three quarts of conventional oil and one 4oz bottle of Yukon positraction additive
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Yukon Gear – 3 Qt – Penzoil 80W90 Conventional Gear Oil (Part No.15002)

3 Qt - Penzoil 80W90 Conventional Gear Oil

from

$44.99
3 Qt. Penzoil 80W90 conventional gear Oil.

Product Features:
  • Includes three quarts of conventional oil
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Yukon Gear – Redline Synthetic "Shock Proof" Oil With Positraction Additive – 4 Quarts (Part No.15005)

Redline Synthetic "Shock Proof" Oil With Positraction Additive - 4 Quarts

from

$148.99
Redline Synthetic “Shock Proof” Oil with positraction Additive. 4 Quarts.

Product Features:
  • Includes four quarts of Redline Shockproof oil and one 4oz bottle of Yukon positraction additive
See More

Yukon Gear – Redline Synthetic "Shock Proof" Oil – 3 Quarts (Part No.15000)

Redline Synthetic "Shock Proof" Oil - 3 Quarts

from

$99.99
Redline Synthetic “Shock Proof” Oil. 3 Quarts.

Product Features:
  • Includes three quarts of Redline Shockproof oil
See More

Yukon Gear – Redline Synthetic "Shock Proof" Oil – 4 Quarts (Part No.15004)

Redline Synthetic "Shock Proof" Oil - 4 Quarts

from

$137.99
Redline Synthetic “Shock Proof” Oil. 4 Quarts.

Product Features:
  • Includes four quarts of Redline Shockproof oil
See More

Top Picks for 1981 GMC K2500 Rear Housing Cover Gaskets

Invest in one of our 3 durable Rear Housing Cover Gaskets for your 1981 GMC, knowing you’re getting trusted brands and expert craftsmanship.

Felpro – Axle Housing Cover Gasket Oval Shaped 10 Bolt Hole Gasket (Part No.RDS 55028-1)

Axle Housing Cover Gasket Oval Shaped 10 Bolt Hole Gasket

from

$10.99
Fel-Pro® gaskets are specifically designed for the repair environment to deliver a reliable seal on even the most troublesome applications. Designed for imperfect sealing surfaces and manufactured with proprietary materials, you can count on Fel-Pro for innovative sealing solutions for the real-world repair environment.

Product Features:
  • Meets or exceeds all original equipment specifications
  • Application specific design to ensure a perfect fit
  • Unsurpassed quality you can trust
  • Validated for fit, form and function
  • Each Fel-Pro gasket, no matter how small, is engineered to exacting standards with proprietary design, engineering and manufacturing processes
See More

Felpro – Axle Housing Cover Gasket: Irregular Shaped 14 Bolt Hole Gasket (Part No.RDS 55063)

Axle Housing Cover Gasket: Irregular Shaped 14 Bolt Hole Gasket

from

$8.29
Fel-Pro® gaskets are specifically designed for the repair environment to deliver a reliable seal on even the most troublesome applications. Designed for imperfect sealing surfaces and manufactured with proprietary materials, you can count on Fel-Pro for innovative sealing solutions for the real-world repair environment.

Product Features:
  • Meets or exceeds all original equipment specifications
  • Application specific design to ensure a perfect fit
  • Engineered for the sealing repair environment
  • Validated for fit, form and function
  • Unsurpassed quality you can trust
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Felpro – Axle Housing Cover Gasket Irregular Shaped 10 Bolt Hole Gasket (Part No.RDS 6629)

Axle Housing Cover Gasket Irregular Shaped 10 Bolt Hole Gasket

from

$7.99
Fel-Pro® gaskets are specifically designed for the repair environment to deliver a reliable seal on even the most troublesome applications. Designed for imperfect sealing surfaces and manufactured with proprietary materials, you can count on Fel-Pro for innovative sealing solutions for the real-world repair environment.

Product Features:
  • Meets or exceeds all original equipment specifications
  • Application specific design to ensure a perfect fit
  • Engineered for the sealing repair environment
  • Validated for fit, form and function
  • Unsurpassed quality you can trust
See More

Differential Covers for 1981 GMC K2500s

Make a smart move for your 1981 GMC K2500 with products all priced from $21.99 to $296.99.

Yukon Gear – Steel Cover For GM 9.5", Threaded For Fill Plug, Plug Not Included (Part No.32333)

Steel Cover For GM 9.5", Threaded For Fill Plug, Plug Not Included

from

$93.99
Steel cover for GM 9.5″ Threaded for fill plug, fill plug not included.

Product Features:
  • Fits GM 9.5″
  • Steel
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Yukon Gear – Chrome Cover For 8.5" GM Front (Part No.32016)

Chrome Cover For 8.5" GM Front

from

$44.99
Chrome cover for 8.5″ GM front.

Product Features:
  • Fits GM 8.5″ front
  • Chrome
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Yukon Gear – Steel Cover For GM 10.5" 14 Bolt Truck (Part No.32345)

Steel Cover For GM 10.5" 14 Bolt Truck

from

$92.99
Product Features:
  • Fits GM 10.5″ 14 bolt truck
  • Steel
See More

Yukon Gear – Chrome Cover For 10.5" GM 14 Bolt Truck (Part No.32013)

Chrome Cover For 10.5" GM 14 Bolt Truck

from

$59.99
Chrome cover for GM 14T.

Product Features:
  • Fits GM 10.5″ 14 bolt truck
  • Chrome
See More

Yukon Gear – Polished Aluminum Cover For 8.5" GM (Part No.32029)

Polished Aluminum Cover For 8.5" GM

from

$296.99
Polished aluminum cover for 8.5″ GM.

Product Features:
  • Fits GM 8.5″ front
  • Finned polished aluminum
See More

Pro-King – Differential Carrier Cover (Part No.742G758A)

Differential Carrier Cover

from

$21.99
Pro-King High Quality Differential Products are designed for trouble free installation and setup.

Product Features:
  • Meets or exceeds OE specifications
See More

Top-Rated Differential Brands For Your 1981 GMC K2500

When it comes to finding the perfect Differential for your 1981 GMC K2500, Advance Auto Parts has you covered with a wide selection of high-quality OEM and aftermarket options from 15 trusted brands. We carry the most popular Differential brands including Felpro, National, and Motive Gear, and more, all known for their exceptional customer ratings (average brand rating of 4.6 stars) and competitive prices, as low as $7.99. Purchasing a Differential from us here at Advance Auto Parts is a smart move for both you and your 1981 GMC K2500, providing peace of mind with parts that meet or exceed OEM standards.

Popular Felpro 1981 GMC K2500 Differentials

If you’re looking for a top-quality Differential for your 1981 GMC K2500, Advance Auto Parts has exactly what you need with our selection of Felpro Differentials. We have 3 Felpro Differentials in stock for this fitment, all known for their durability and precision fit. With prices starting at just $8.29 and an average cost of $9.42, you’ll find the perfect Differential for your needs and budget. Felpro Differentials for the 1981 GMC K2500 come highly rated, with over 228 customer reviews and an impressive average rating of 4.6 stars. Choosing a Felpro Differential from Advance Auto Parts is a smart move to ensure quality and value for your vehicle.
Axle Housing Cover Gasket Oval Shaped 10 Bolt Hole Gasket
from $10.99
(195)
Axle Housing Cover Gasket Oval Shaped 10 Bolt Hole Gasket
“Worked as described”

Top-Quality National 1981 GMC K2500 Differentials

For those in search of a high-quality Differential for their 1981 GMC K2500, Advance Auto Parts offers a great selection of National Differentials. With 3 National Differentials in stock, you can trust you’re getting top-tier parts designed for durability and a perfect fit. Prices for these Differentials start at just $10.99, with an average price of $12.32, giving you a range of options to suit your budget. Backed by over 12 customer ratings and an average rating of 4.3 stars, National Differentials provide both reliability and excellent performance. Choosing a National Differential from Advance Auto Parts is a smart investment in your vehicle’s performance and longevity.
Bearing Race
from $13.99
(6)
Bearing Race
“Fit perfectly. No difficulty replacing my old ones.”
Bearing Race
from $10.99
(4)
Bearing Race
“Fast handling”
Bearing Race
from $11.99
(2)
Bearing Race
“Reasonable price and woks well. front diff 2006 Escalade esv”

FAQs for 1981 GMC K2500 Differentials

What are the best-selling Differentials for 1981 GMC K2500s?

Out of 323 Differentials that fit 1981 GMC K2500s, the following parts are the top sellers:

What’s the price range for 1981 GMC K2500 Differentials?

The prices of Differentials for the 1981 GMC K2500 range from $0.91 up to $1,566.99 for the most premium parts.

What is the average price of a Differential for a 1981 GMC K2500?

The average price for Differentials for the 1981 GMC K2500 is $249.76. Keep in mind the variety of part types within our Differential category, where you are likely to find a wide range of prices across a variety of parts and components.

Does Advance Auto Parts sell Differentials for other GMC K2500 model years?

Yes, we carry Differentials for 18 model years of GMC K2500s between 1979 and 1999. The following model years are the most popular for Differential purchases: 1999, 1998, 1997, 1996, 1995, 1994, 1993, 1992, and 1991.

What are the cheapest Differentials for my 1981 GMC K2500?

The cheapest 1981 GMC K2500 Differentials we carry are:

Does Advance Auto Parts sell Differentials for any other 1981 GMC models?

Yes. We stock Differentials for 18 other popular 1981 GMC models. Some of the most popular are 1981 Jimmy Differentials, 1981 C2500 Differentials, 1981 K1500 Differentials, 1981 C1500 Differentials, and 1981 K3500 Differentials.

What types of Differentials do you sell for my 1981 GMC K2500?

As of 3/1/26, these are some of the most in-demand types of Differentials for a 1981 GMC K2500:

Can I get help with 1981 GMC K2500 Differential orders?

Contact our customer support team by chat or phone, through the help desk page, where you can find instant answers about GMC Differentials and more.

What is your return policy for GMC K2500 Differentials?

Advance Auto Parts keeps returns simple. For new GMC K2500 Differentials and accessories, your online orders can be returned, in their original condition, within 45 days. For requirements, see the returns page.