Wondering:

How can I find out what my gear ratio is in my rear end???? Because of the slow take off I am thinking I have the 4.10 gears... The van is a '92 shorty XL 3.0L v6

If I do have 4.10 gears couldn't I just find a junked van with the 3.73 gears and swap the rear end out???? I want a little more low end power than I have right now. Thats why I am asking.

Also does anyone know of any headers that will fit the aerostar with little or no modifications???? I really want those... I'm wanting to replace the ENTIRE exhaust system in january so any suggestions are welcome there. I want a powerful sound but not too loud. and I definately want Headers.

And last, can I get a computer programmer for this van and re-program the existing computer for more power? or do I have to buy a replacement chip? I still would want a programmer though to set it up the way I want it. Who makes them (programmers for the aero)? Got this question by looking at the Jegs cataloge a little too much today...



Thanks
-Mike-

 

I think 4:10 gears would actually give you more power (than the 373s) on takeoff, and lower high end speed.

 

[updated:LAST EDITED ON 13-Nov-02 AT 04:53 PM (EST)]There are two sources of information. The first is to check the small metal tag affixed to one of the retaining bolts on the rear differential cover. The second place is the vehicle ID codes sticker affixed to the driver's side door jamb. Look under the section entitiled "Axle" for a code. They are as follows:
24 or 34 = Conventional rear axle 3.73 ratio
B4 = Limited slip 3.73
B2 = " 4.10
35 = Conventional Diff (Dana) 3.27
15 or 25 = Conventional 3.27
23 = " 3.45
29 = " 3.55
B9 = Limited Slip 3.55

 

[updated:LAST EDITED ON 22-Nov-02 AT 07:24 PM (EST)]thanks.

it had the code:24 on the sticker, which means the 3.73 gears. When I rebuild the tranny in the next few months could I find an aerostar with 4:10 gears in it and swap the rear end? would this give me more power off the line, or would it be better to stick with the 3.73 gears?

The reason I am considering this is that the diff. was run dry for a few miles (noticed noise coming from it and pulled over, ended up towing it to the shop, on a flat bed wrecker) all of this happened after some one I loaned the van too drov or backed over something and damaged it, not sure exactly what happened, but my mechanic replaced the gasket, and cover, and put new gear oil (synthetic) in it, it is NOT leaking at all now. The old cover was like seriously dented amd the oil had leaked out the bottom of it.

The mechanic said I was lucky to notice it before any major damage occured to it, but also said that after that he isn't sure how long it is going to last. Haven't had any problems with it since, but I know I should probably replace it before something goes wrong with it, and I sure wouldn't mind getting a little better acceleration out of it.

by the way, i remember someone saying that old ranger headers will fit on the aerostar. which ones was that, and how much will it cost?

Thanks,
-Mike-