Rear Gears

[6.5 Detroit Diesel]

My question goes as follows. My truck is 4.10 geared and therefore, even with taller tires, sucks a lot of fuel at highway speeds. I am going on a 1,500 mile trip shortly and am looking at changing gears temporarily. I have access to dozens of units and can pick up a used one for $40. If I swap in a 3.73 or a 3.42 in the rear end, can I be sure that there will be no damage to my front end? I won't be putting it into 4X obviously but as my truck has the front assemble turning constantly, I was wondering if any damage would occur. Thanks

[More Power]

As long as the front axle doesn't engage, no damage will result. You could remove the front driveshaft if something unusual happens (i.e. some else drives your truck, and accidentally engages 4WD).

Jim

[6.5 Detroit Diesel]

Good point. Swapping the carriers out is no problem as a buddy and I pull units and sell them and so we have become fairly skilled in removal and installation of rearends. Thanks again

[DA BIG ONE]

Running 35" tires puts you real tall w/4.10's already so I'm thinking there will be no gains going taller.

35" w/4.88 will bring your drivetrain back or real close to stock 4.10 ratio.

[6.5 Detroit Diesel]

Running a 3.73 or 3.42 with 35" tires will really lower RPMS at 120+ kmhs. Right now at 110 I am around 2,100. At 125 I am closing on 2,500+ rpm. What I really need to do is scrape together enough cash to purchase a Gear Vendors setup and then drop in a set of 4.56's or 4.88's. :D But for now, I just want to get the RPMS down before a bunch of long road trips

[6.5 Detroit Diesel]

Okay, now I am really happy. I am going to be doing these long distance trips pretty well empty. Today I ran across to 3.23 units. Pulled the better one along with the pinion gear and such. This should really let me cruise across the prairie easily!