3500 SRW Rear axle choice with 18 vs 20 inch rims

[brillmtb]

So I am getting closer to a 3500, just wish I could find someone who has the air ride rear, but another question came up. If the 3500, SRW only comes in 3.42 vs 4.10 and I want to go witht he 20 inch wheels I am concerned that the 3.42 may be too high especially towing? I dont really want to go with 4.10's however. Seems like the 3.73 would have been best. Anyone have experience with 3.42 and 20 inch rims while towing

 

[AH64ID]

SRW diesel only comes with 3.42, so no decision has to be made. 4.10 is only available on a SRW with gas.

 

[Wertles]

Worst case scenario is that you shift into 5th a few extra times. The new motor has more than enough power to pull anything. I have 4.10's pulling 18000 pounds. I have so much more power on tap that I wish I had gone 3.73.

 

[Ram4Sam]

So I am getting closer to a 3500, just wish I could find someone who has the air ride rear, but another question came up. If the 3500, SRW only comes in 3.42 vs 4.10 and I want to go witht he 20 inch wheels I am concerned that the 3.42 may be too high especially towing? I dont really want to go with 4.10's however. Seems like the 3.73 would have been best. Anyone have experience with 3.42 and 20 inch rims while towing

I don't think there is much difference (if any) between the overall height/diameter of the tires used on the two rim sizes.......the 20" rim just has less sidewall than the 18" rim/tire.

Sam

 

[Joseph Donnelly]

The stock 18" and 20" tires have almost exactly the same diameters. With an efficiency range of 1200-2000 rpm, the 3.42s work great. Only when you tow very heavy would you need more gear, and by then you need a dually too.

 

[Steve Phillips]

I have a 14 3500 srw Aisin 3.42. We have had this truck since October and have 4200 + miles. It has no problem with our 24' enclosed trailer which will scale between 10 and 13,000. Only with aggressive throttle or steep grades dose it go to 5th, it has so much power not much bothers it.
The only thing about tires is the ride is a little more stiff with the short sidewall, but not much different than our old 06 3500 srw. Right now replacement choices are limited.
So far this truck is very strong and comfortable.

 

[Joseph Donnelly]

I recently looked into tires for the 18" wheels and found a good selection.

 

[brillmtb]

Here would be my first choice in tires

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires...tireModel=Dueler+A/T+Revo+2&sidewall=Outlined White Letters&partnum=765SR0REVO2OWL&tab=Specs

 

[Joseph Donnelly]

At this time, it seems that 20" are more "stylish" but there aren't very many tires to choose from. 18" is the new workhorse size for the 3500s and my discussion should appear in the next TDR issue.

 

[Sticks]

At this time, it seems that 20" are more "stylish" but there aren't very many tires to choose from. 18" is the new workhorse size for the 3500s and my discussion should appear in the next TDR issue.

I think "Pimped" is the word you are looking for. I'm getting old, not sure what the current pop culture catch phrase for visual modifications is.