Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Dana 70/60 Gear ratio too high

[alaskax]

I have a 2000 2500 with the 3. 73 gears. That year the overdrive ratio was 0. 69 (or is it 0. 67?). Thus, it is geared quite high, though since I don't pull loads, it has been good in my opinion. I have dragged my truck, and at 13. 5 secs in the quarter, it's not exactly a slug! Anyways, in recent times I've lifted it and put on 37's (compared to the stock 31's). Now, it tachs at 2K at 90 mph, which is not all too practical!

Does anyone know the best source to get a lower ratio for the differentials? I'm thinking the standard 4. 10 gears, but is there something else I should consider? Or, can I be directed to a thread that has already discussed this? I did not find anything too readily.

Thanks for any help!

John

 

[Road Dog]

I thought the diffs were 3. 55 or 4. 10 for 2nd gen trucks. (1500s were 3. 55 or 3. 93. ) With 37s you might want to go lower than 4. 10. Using Randy's R&P RPM calculator you'd be at 2,000 rpm with 4. 56 gears at 70 mph.

 

[AWeiman]

second gens either had 3. 55's or 4. 10's

 

[alaskax]

Yes, I guess I just had a mental glitch... 3. 54 is even in my signature! I've had about 3 years of no activity and almost not driving my truck, and now I'm bringing it all back to life and need to get my mind back into alignment as well! Anyway, 4. 10 gears would put me just about exactly where I want to be. My main question is still "where do I go to get these gears"? I'm hoping it's affordable and not prohibitive!

Thanks a ton,

John

 

[Road Dog]

Randy's Ring & Pinion is always a popular choice. Regearing is about $1,000 per axle because if you're pulling the diff apart you might as well rebuild the axle (new seals etc). Setting up the ring & pinion is a special art so if you're just changing the gears you need to find "the guy" who does it for a living.