Axle Ratio, new truck
Hey all, I think I know the answer but just wanted to make sure. I am looking into a 5th wheel ~15k GVWR and am buying a truck. I want an f350 and may order a new one to get exactly what I want (there...
Forum Discussion
BurbMan wrote:
I would get the 4.30's. The 10-speed trans will give you decent mileage when not towing, but there's no substitute for that mechanical advantage of lower gearing to get the load moving when you are towing. The 4.30 gears will make it easier for the trans to do its job and will likely help it last longer before it needs a rebuild. The 4.30s will really help when you need it most, like backing into a site...
FWIW, a good axle shop can re-gear a 4x4 for about $2k. Might be worth finding a used one with the 3.73s, then if you don't like how it tows, have it re-geared to 4.30s. I wouldn't sell everything to buy a new truck just to get 4.30s.
If you have a 4x4 and are having difficulty backing into a site...drop it into 4-Lo and you will have far more torque than the 4.30 gives in 2-High. But really, that's a pretty rare issue. Most people towing 15k 5th wheels aren't backing up 20deg inclines.
Accelerating from a stop is simply not an issue with modern drivetrains. The 10 speed will often skip gears because it doesn't need them while accelerating.
