In my honest opinioin dhamp, I wouldn't be interested in your buddies set up. For 1, the 3.23 is some change, but its minimal. Although, it might be right where you want to be. Its only half a turn and 3.23 is still pretty tall. Personally I like the 3.42 gear for a 1/2 ton 2wd pick up. The other thing is, unless he had it upgraded aftermarket, his posi isn't really a posi. Its a G80 Eaton Gov-Lock if its factory. About all its good for is pulling a boat up a wet boat ramp. Past that, its not all that good of unit. The Gov gear loves to strip out on those units, and those units are only good for about 25mph and less. IMO, if you want a posi unit, I'd find me a good used 3.42 or 3.73 rear end, either 10 bolt or 12 bolt. Then add a Lock Right Locker unit to the open differential, simply by removing the spider gears and installing the Lock Right unit in their place. If you like that 2.73 ratio you currently have, and its open diff, then just buy the Lock Right and install in what you have now.