When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
I bought a used 2000 F150. Have some desert toys I'd like to tow. Everything I've researched up to now points back to the one item that I need to know but don't. How can I find out what my axle ratio is?
The ratio is usually stamped on a tag on the rear end. Or, there will be an axle code on the plate on the drivers door. Get the code and some one here should be able to decipher it.
Thanks Matt. I checked the id plate on the inside of the door but it didn't have the info. I will check the axle itself tomorrow. If that does not work does anyone know a website maybe back at Ford where I can give the VIN number and they can tell me?
It's not in the VIN. There should be an "axle" code on the vehicle ID sticker at the center bottom, if not then there's the code on the rear end tag. If all else fails, jack it up and turn the wheel by hand and count the axle revs.
If you have a limited slip, you'll have to raise both rear wheels off the ground and the number of driveshaft turns to get ONE rotation of the wheels is the rear end ratio. If you have an open rear then jack only one rear wheel off the ground and the number of driveshaft turns to get TWO wheel revs is your ratio.
You're in luck. It's a 3.55 limited slip. The chances of finding one with that combination by random luck on a used car lot are pretty low. Just for grins take another look at that vehicle ID sticker see if there's a code "H9" for the axle.
Strangeranger
Are you saying that H9 is the code for a limited slip differential and 3.55 gears? Or just 3.55 gears?
In your experience how common is this set up. The axle code on my used 2001 Screw is also H9.
Open rears are cheaper to build with a much lower maint. requirement.
Open rears are usually standard equipment.
Most people don't understand the value of LS so don't order it.
Most people don't even know what their axle ratio is.
Most people don't even know what an axle ratio is.
Thanks everyone for the info. This is truly a great way to get info and opinion. Looks like I got everything I need to determine my tow rating. Just need to find the right toy hauler.