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Massey16's avatar
Massey16
Explorer
Feb 17, 2015

Difference in Gearing

Hello!

I recently sold my truck to move to a crew cab. I have come across two F-150's that are very similar save the rear end gear ratio. One has the 3.55 and the other the 3.73. The difference in towing capacity is 1000 lbs (9200 vs 8200). Either weight will be fine for the TT I have. The rear GAWR is the same between the two trucks as well. For background, I tow in a relatively flat area, around 120 miles one-way (at most), and about 6 times a year (again, at most).

So, my question is will it make a large difference for me? I know I would save gas with the 3.55's as the truck is my daily driver. The cost difference between the trucks is $1,000.

I appreciate any opinions you all care to share. Thanks!
  • I had a 2013 Ram 1500 single cab with the 5.7, 6 speed and 3:55 rear. Traded it for a 2014 quad cab, same engine, 8 speed and 3:92 rear. I realize the transmission made quite a difference, but the heavier quad cab gets noticeably better mileage. This may be an apples to oranges comparison but I really like those 3:92 gears much more. It accelerates and pulls so much better. Purchase either, but I promise you wouldn't regret the 3:73. The difference in fuel burn, if any would amount to next to nothing, but the satisfaction difference will be much much more.
  • I don't think it would make a big difference. If your TT is closer to 7000 - 8000#, I'd go 3.73. The mpg difference will hardly be measurable.

    In a recent test, Picuptrucks.com tested two GM trucks, one had a 3.23, the other a 3.42 axle. They were so close in mpg it didn't matter.