I am in the process of replacing my Ring and Pinion Gears. I know what I need.
GM 3.42 ratio 7.5/7.625 Ring and Pinion Gear Set. 10 bolt, 27 spline count on the pinion.

I have been checking all over the web and there are plenty of replacements to be found.

My basic question is how do you decide which is the best quality for the money?

The OEM Ring and Pinion gear set that came with the truck from GM goes anywhere from
$650-$850. I love my truck but I can't afford that.

I have found prices ranging from $150-$300 as the average for a new Ring and Pinion Gear Set for my truck.

Are these parts comparable to the catalytic converter. You get what you pay for?

I am not a machinist and I have no idea what kind of metal/quality control GM used
to make my original set of gears I have in the truck now. They are just starting to whine
a lot which after the 190,000 miles can be expected.

Does the price usually reflect the workmanship/quality when it comes to these?

Most only come with a 12 month warranty. That ain't nothing.

Any input/feedback would be appreciated. As much as I like to work on my truck, once every 10 years/100,000 miles would be OK for this kind of fix.

Thanks - Mark K