Rear axle ratios
I've had a hard time finding a truck with everything I want on it, so I'm debating the need for higher rear axle ratios. Here are the net 1st gear ratios for various half-ton trucks: Make Rear ...
Forum Discussion
MFL wrote:blt2ski wrote:
What are the tire diameters. As that can make a difference too. A 2" diam change is like going from a 3.73 to a 4.10 if you go smaller, or a 4.10 to a 3.73 if you go to a larger tire.
Also torque plays a part in the take off part too. Not so much as HP when moving a road speed. One needs both.
Marty
When I ordered my new 250, I knew I wanted to stay with the smaller stock wheels/tires to keep my FW towing level, and to be sure to clear my garage door.
I was on the fence about 3.73 gearing, or going with the 4.30, with advertised 3,000 lbs more towing capacity. I discussed this with my dealer, who sells a lot of trucks. He said if I was getting the 18" wheels, with taller tires, he would get the 4.30 gears. Since I was staying with 17" wheels, smaller diameter tires, the 3.73 would work best for my needs.
I noticed that most all of the new 250 gas 6.2s on the lots, had the optional big tires/wheels, with the 3.73 gearing, which IMO, would mean gearing closer to 3.55, when compared to mine.
Jerry
My F250 came with 17" rims and 31" tall tires. I later went to 18" rims with 33" tall tires to gain additional wheel capacity. Even with the diesel, I noticed more downshifts in the hills/mountains but still stayed in top gear when towing mostly on flats.
