How critical is axle ratio?
In the modern day of 10 speed automatics, how necessary are 'towing' gears? By 'towing' I mean anything over 4.xx. These new transmissions have such low first gears compared to just a decade ago, is ...
Forum Discussion
Hemling wrote:
It does concern me a bit, and I'm thankful for this discussion, because in the near future I hope to be a 2022/2023 (whenever I get around to it) super duty owner. Right now towing a 9K TT, and probably something like a 12-13K fifth wheel in the future. for me, I've made the decision that a 7.3 F-350 makes the most sense. I don't want a truck that turns too many RPMs unloaded on the highway, but I also don't want it to lug while towing. Anything will seem like a huge improvement over my 4r100/3.73 combo right now. I guess it's first world problems when you get down to it. Anybody running 4.30s with a newer 7.3/10 speed, what are your RPMs on the interstate? Does it feel like it's too high? Anyone running 3.55 or so gears? Do you even use 10th?!?
I run the 4.30 with the 7.3 gas engine. About 2,000 rpm in tenth gear at 65 mph empty. It pulls a 15K fifth wheel fine, but of course, you know you are loaded. The TFL test was a 16K gooseneck trailer up the IKE, so I knew this would be adequate power. I would get the 4.30 with the 10 speed -- excellent combo. I am rated for 26K, and run at 22.5K GCWR.
