Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Debating a gear swap.

[HookMeUp]

I currently have 3. 54 gears and when towing puts me at about 1850rpm@65mph. If I switch to 4:10's that would put me at 2050@65mph. Can't decide if it would be worth it. My question is those that are towing with the 4:10's do you feel that it easier than if towing with 3:54's?

 

[klaybus]

With a 6 speed? I doubt it. With the auto trans, absolutely! I suppose you would be able to use 6th gear more with 4. 10s but I bet if you went to Don M's 1. 6s you might be able to too & it would be less expensive.

But then again, I'm an auto guy so take it FWIW. Good Luck!



Clay

 

[Huff N Puff]

We need to know more

How much weight you are towing, and what is your tire diameter.

 

[HookMeUp]

Trailer weight is around 10,200 lbs. Standard LT265 tires (31" I think). The 1850rpm@65mph is pulling in 6th gear.

 

[Huff N Puff]

You are geared just right,dont see any reason to switch. You are right in the sweet spot of the power band.

 

[jkidd]

at 65 you are good. if you live in california where towing speed is by law 55mph then there is a gap in the gears. The 4. 10s do tow better, but to do 70mph you are at 2200rpm. by going to 3. 55 I now get 1mpg better empty and probably slightly better loaded.

you could always go 245/75/16 or spend the extr*****$ and get 3. 73 for your dana 80.

I usually tow less than 8k, towed a 12k 36ft 3axle,3 slide and i forgot how much difference that extra 4k feels.

 

[rweis]

Agree with the comment about the ETC's. I went from 3. 56 to 4. 10 and tow 13k high 5er. WAY better tow.



Bob Weis

 

[Grizzly]

I currently have 3. 54 gears and when towing puts me at about 1850rpm@65mph. If I switch to 4:10's that would put me at 2050@65mph. Can't decide if it would be worth it. My question is those that are towing with the 4:10's do you feel that it easier than if towing with 3:54's?

Could you go with a 3:73?

 

[HookMeUp]

Just talked with the dealer about the gear swap, both axles labor and parts is $3500! I could probably spend that money on a couple of upgrades and still have some left over.

 

[Mactruck]

Spend a little money and get a cam.

 

[klaybus]

Just talked with the dealer about the gear swap, both axles labor and parts is $3500! I could probably spend that money on a couple of upgrades and still have some left over.

Randys Ring & Pinion $850- with tax for 4. 10s (2 sets R&P 4x4)... . Find a Ring & Pinion guy for the swap & you'll probably be around $1350. At least thats what I paid. ($500 labor) Huge difference in towing power for me. 2000 rpm's at 62 in OD. 55 mph while towing in Washington too.



Clay