2002 f350 v8 manual hubs w/ manual on the floor 4x4 regular cab

I have just deciphered that my truck came from the factory with 4.10 gears. I am running 265/75r16 e rated transforce AT tires.

What does this "higher" gearing do for me? Any good info links? most of what I have read is about drag racing cars from google... I am looking for truck related info.

I don't really do very much towing, at all really. I do carry shingles and work materials/tools in the bed a few times a week, often less that 1000lbs...

Is the 4.10 better or worse for gas mileage? I have been getting 14-14.5 mpg on 89 octane with the hubs unlocked of course. This is also while running two tanks or almost 1k miles with techron treatment on the full 38 gal tank. Does using 89 octane help at all with performance, longevity and mileage?

Are the 4.10 gears "easier" on the transmission? I read this somewhere... educate me please

Other advantages ?

Thanks for all the help in advance.

JC

 

What do you mean better for mileage? Better than what?

 

better than 3.73 with the same setup....

 

You are better off with the 4.10s. That is a lot of truck to move with a 5.4.

The truck will work harder with 3.73s.

 

I have 4.10's in my truck but it's a 4x2. As has been stated, starting up or pulling a load then 4.10's are probably a better choice. If you do alot of highway driving, you're drivetrain is turning higher rpms at any given speed vs 3.73 or 3.55's. Remember also, if you ever plan to use your 4wd, that also means you have 2 axels you'd have to change out if you want to change gear ratio's. Something like a Gear Vendors overdrive unit might be an option if they have one that works with 4x4's. Could run around the same $$ as changing both axels but it's been years since I priced one out.

 

I am very happy with the truck in general. I am just not familiar with exactly what advantages or disadvantages the 4.10 gears give me over the normal lower gearing.

I am seeing decent mileage I think (14mpg mixed) and i'm not totally unhappy with that.

Thanks for clearing a few things up guys.

JC

 

4.10 gearing gives you more towing capacity compared to the 3.73 gears. With these engines, fuel mileage isn't real different between the 4.10s and the 3.73s, everything else being equal.