Gear Ratio
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New User
Joined: May 2003
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Gear Ratio
I know this is a stupid question but I am a novice and am trying to get more torque from my 1999 4.2 SuperCab. The problem is I am starting to add some of the mods to the truck but the one thing I keep see on this board and others it the gear ratio. How do I find out what my gear ratio is. The manual gives both 3.08 and 3.55. I have looked in the engine compartment and the on the door but no joy.
Postmaster
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 4,532
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From: Trussville, Alabama
Gear Ratio
Welcome! Nice to have you here at FTE. Hope you like it (and think you will!)
Take a look at the sticker in the door jamb. Locate the field showing the axel code.
Here is the information that will let you know what you have..
Axle Codes (LS=Limited Slip / Traction Lok):
F-150:
19 – 3.55 Non-LS
18 – 3.08 Non-LS
H9 – 3.55 LS
B6 – 3.73 LS
Take a look at the sticker in the door jamb. Locate the field showing the axel code.
Here is the information that will let you know what you have..
Axle Codes (LS=Limited Slip / Traction Lok):
F-150:
19 – 3.55 Non-LS
18 – 3.08 Non-LS
H9 – 3.55 LS
B6 – 3.73 LS
Senior User
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 277
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From: San Rafael, NM
Gear Ratio
You're definately set up for the MPG and not towing/hauling power. Probably a CAFE standard thing. You'll want to move up to a 3.55 or higher. Try doing a search for 'ring and pinion' and shop around, it's not that expensive to move up your ratio.
New User
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 12
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Gear Ratio
I also have the V6 with manual and 3.08 rear end... good gas mileage on the hwy but little torque for towing... so I'm also thinking about changing the gear ratio from the 3.08 to a 3.55 to improve tow capability but what about adding limited slip to the rear-end? You cant get off the ramp without it. Is it doable $$$ or would it be cheaper to look for a junked one and change the whole rear-end out? what kind of shops provide this service? What about the Factory Warranty? Will it void the warranty if you change the gearing on the rear end? Any answers to the quesions I've posed is appreciated. Thanks!
Senior User
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 277
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From: San Rafael, NM
Gear Ratio
FordDrvr-
If yor going to go to the dealer to have the LS installed they are probably going to charge you greater than $2000. It just aint worth it in my opinion. If you want quiet smooth driving on the street but need the extra traction for boat ramps or the occasional rough spot, I would install an E-Locker http://www.automotive.eaton.com/prod...y/elocker.html The only catch is that you will have to wait till about mid August before you can purchase one. Eaton will not be shipping them out to their dealers before then. At around $700 they are more expensive than conventional lockers but way cheaper than a LS system. Also, LS has clutches that need to be replaced every 35k to 45k miles. . . very $$$.
The E-Locker is currently standard equipment in the H2 rear diff and optional equipment in the H1. The simple press of a button lets you go from an open differential to fully locked. Thats full power to both wheels, not 10% or 20% to one wheel like a LS system. IN MY OPINION, IT IS A WAVE FROM THE FUTURE AND LS WILL BECOME A THING OF THE PAST.
If yor going to go to the dealer to have the LS installed they are probably going to charge you greater than $2000. It just aint worth it in my opinion. If you want quiet smooth driving on the street but need the extra traction for boat ramps or the occasional rough spot, I would install an E-Locker http://www.automotive.eaton.com/prod...y/elocker.html The only catch is that you will have to wait till about mid August before you can purchase one. Eaton will not be shipping them out to their dealers before then. At around $700 they are more expensive than conventional lockers but way cheaper than a LS system. Also, LS has clutches that need to be replaced every 35k to 45k miles. . . very $$$.
The E-Locker is currently standard equipment in the H2 rear diff and optional equipment in the H1. The simple press of a button lets you go from an open differential to fully locked. Thats full power to both wheels, not 10% or 20% to one wheel like a LS system. IN MY OPINION, IT IS A WAVE FROM THE FUTURE AND LS WILL BECOME A THING OF THE PAST.
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New User
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 12
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Gear Ratio
Cool, I'll check out the "E-Locker" but what about going to a 3.55 gear ratio? Is that a big deal as far as expense is concerned? And again, what about warranty issues? The truck only has 35K on it and the extended warranty is good for another couple of years and up to 65K miles... I guess it would just void the rear-end part of the power train warranty... Wadayathink?
Last edited by FordDrvr; Jun 28, 2003 at 08:52 PM.
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Senior User
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 277
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From: San Rafael, NM
Gear Ratio
I am not sure about the warranty issue, maybe someone else can chime in. As far as the ring and pinion goes, <$200 but >$100 I believe. Depends on manufacturer and dealer. The locker should work with any ring set up. On my prev posting I just assumed you have and 8.8rg axle because of the 3.08 diff. Mid August is when Eaton will be shipping out for the Ford 8.8 but I am not sure about other diameters.
Last edited by damonlan; Jun 28, 2003 at 09:30 PM.
Senior User
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 277
Likes: 0
From: San Rafael, NM
Gear Ratio
As far as the warranty goes, yes the part you replace will not be covered but other parts may also be voided if Ford determines that your alteration or the after market part caused residual damage. Maybe someone else can clarrify this for you.
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