Gear ratio change

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Sep 17, 2012 | 10:37 PM

FordYoungGun35

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From: Poplar Bluff, MO

Gear ratio change

Changing the gears in a 96" f150 4x4 is it really a 1200$ deal? Changing to 4:10...

Sep 17, 2012 | 10:48 PM

impish

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Quote:

Originally Posted by FordYoungGun35

Changing the gears in a 96" f150 4x4 is it really a 1200$ deal? Changing to 4:10...

Two ways to do it. Neither is easy, or cheap. Replace entire rear axle assembly already set up with gear ratio you want, along with the front difgferential, which is a bear to do.

Or, replace ONLY ring & pinion gears in both front and rear. Few mechanics are trained to set up gears in the "integral" type housing used. Old Ford 9" was much easier (just an after-thought).

My guess, is, yes, it could easily cost $1200. I would not want to do it myself for less.

Hope this helps. BTW, 4.10s will greatly increase your engine's rpms at all speeds, use much more fuel, and wear out the engine more quickly. That's the downside of better acceleration.

impish

Sep 18, 2012 | 07:21 AM

Diesel_Brad

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From: Gilbert, PA

Yes. once you factor in gear, bearings and shim kit you would be looking at about $600+. Then factor in the labor

Sep 18, 2012 | 09:05 AM

rla2005

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From: Kentucky

My last gear swap, 1997 Mustang GT, was about $400 in parts. That was new R&P (3.73), all new bearings/races and seals. Add in some bucks for gear lube, clutch packs (factory LSD) and a 12 pack of beer. I did everything in my home garage with no air tools. I have done several gear swaps in my lifetime so I knew what I was doing and had the proper tools, except for the big-a** airgun at the time.

You need to do front and rear as well as SERIOUSLY consider doing a LSD or locker on either or both ends, it is going to cost a pretty penny in parts alone. If the suspension bushings have much age on them then you may also run into changing those while you have things apart. All it takes is money..............but always remember: Do it right the first time!

Sep 18, 2012 | 10:09 AM

FordYoungGun35

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From: Poplar Bluff, MO

Okay well y'all are all new to my threads so my plans are o rebuild the motor (302) and make a 4x4 lightning.. So the performance of a lightning just a 4x4.. And the 4:10 gearing which the lightning has will give mine the low end torque and get up and go feeling I'm looking for

Sep 18, 2012 | 10:38 AM

burnout400m

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From: Pueblo, CO

You gotta pay to play!

Sep 18, 2012 | 11:12 AM

rla2005

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From: Kentucky

I know exactly what your project plan is. The Lightning came with a 5.8L engine with a few factory go-fast parts. Your truck is a 4x4 with a 5.0L engine. Your plans for 4.10 axle gearing is bare minimum IMHO. Even with some mild mods that 5.0L is already at a low end torque disadvantage plus the added weight of the 4wd drive train. Even lower gearing or a stroker kit would even the playing field.
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