Differential Gears
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Freshman User
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 40
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From: Apache Junction, AZ
Differential Gears
I'll start by giving all the info presently installed in my 2002 F350, 7.3PSD, 4X4, Elect. 4-spd Auto Trans.The truck was bought in single rear wheel configuration but I converted to dually. I am presently towing a 5th wheel and feel that the 3.73 ratio limited slip axle is not the best gears to be pulling with. Am using the stock LT225/75R16E BSW A/S tires. What is my best choice for towing gears? I hear 4.30 front and rear. My milage is already bad, so that is not an issue. Steep hills are rough and a 20mph head wind will decrease speed in a hurry. Thanks, in advance, for help with this. My only other options are the new F450, 6.4PSD or a Freightliner, with the Mercedes engine & transmission.
Last edited by Diesel Driver; May 14, 2007 at 01:38 PM. Reason: Additional info
Thread Starter
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Freshman User
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 40
Likes: 0
From: Apache Junction, AZ
Differential Gear Change!!!!
Come on people I really need some help here with this gear change business. I'm sure there is some tech help out there some where. I really appreciate the one answer I got but there is not a lot of info there.
Post Fiend
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 6,948
Likes: 44
Don't know what you are looking for. Are you waiting to hear a bunch of guys say, "yeah man the 4.30's are the magic set-up"? Things are different for different people. Not knowing exactly how heavy the trailer is makes it a little more difficult. A 15,000 trailer is going to need more gear than a 7500 lb. one. That truck would really like the 4.30 gears, and the 4.56's would be a little steep for that diesel. Now the choice is yours. Do you go as steep as a 4.30, or try right around 4.10? Plenty of gear ratio charts available to help you with that, but the bottom line is that it is your decision, and none of us can make it for you.
Kinda confused about the exact tech stuff you are looking for?
Kinda confused about the exact tech stuff you are looking for?
Thread Starter
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Freshman User
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 40
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From: Apache Junction, AZ
Okay, this is great. You gave me some outstanding information. I had no idea where to start and you gave that to me. I have a 5th wheel with a gvwr of 15,500#. My problem with the 373's is wind gusts and steep climbs. I already towed to Az and back to Pa. the wind played havic and mountains were slow but no real heat problem. Thanks for your input. I'll look at hte 430 and 410. Where do I find the gear ratio charts?
Post Fiend
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 6,948
Likes: 44
Go to the top of your page, and click on articles / specs. Then use automotive calculators (I think) and you will find some gear ratio calculators. Hope this is a little more helpfull. That is a bunch of weight for that truck. Think it will really like the 4.30's, just have to make sure that you are willing to turn an oil burner that high when you are empty. Loaded, it will be great, but the compromise while empty might be something to consider.
Good Luck...
Good Luck...
