Upgrading 2003 - How Far to Go

[DaveScott]

I have a 2003 2500, 4 X 4 with HO and 6 speed manual I bought new. It has 230,000 miles and don't really want to replace it. I get 20 + mpg in town and 22 to 24 on the road (running 70 to 75). I have some rust issues so the cargo box needs to be replaced and I plan to get it painted. I intend to replace all hoses and belts. Those are givens, but I want to refurbish the truck, and while I am a long way from loaded, if I am going to do it I am going to do it right. My first question is, am I nuts to want to do this? Second, if I am not nuts, what sort of things should I be looking at doing. What about the 3:43 rear axle? I have the 3:73 and I don't need it. I am not sure who does. I bought this to pull a RV trailer. I had a 34 ft Airstream that was about 10,000 lbs. I got rid of the trailer and kept the truck, but it had plenty of power to pull trailer and I will never get anything that big again. I know from a dollars and cents standpoint that will not save enough gas to justify the expense but I would just as soon not waste the fuel and it would also give me additional range. Can it be done? Cost?

Is there someone who does this sort of thing? I am located near Louisville, KY

Dave

 

[inlinesix3million]

For that kind of expense( changing gear ratios ) you would be money ahead by installing a Spyntec manual hub lockout. You're mileage, driveability, and front axle component life

all go up. Wheel bearings last longer and are cheaper to replace. Still want to change gear ratios? Go with 285/75/17's. RPM's will drop and you're new frontend will handle the

added weight of the larger tires better.

 

[Wayne M.]

NO! You're not nuts! A pre emission CTD is worth saving any way possible. I will do a full refurb on mine when I'm able. I love the Spyntecs. If I was redoing my diffs, I would switch to the higher gear they now have. I would also go full boat on one of the front suspension kits out there.

 

[Shadrach]

What about a Gear Vendors under/over drive? That would give you the best of both worlds.
David