Is swapping gears worth it?
 

Currently have 3.54 gears in the rear end and im wanting to go to 4.10. Question is, is it worth it. Nearly 1000 dollars for parts (locker, gears,rebuild kit). How much faster will it feel? Is it really noticable? Truck is just for fun so no towing or very little although 4.10s should be good for that either way. Also not a daily, just a toy i drive to work once in awhile. If not 4.10s what ratio should i go with?

Gear selection depends (in part) on engine specs and tire size... mostly diameter. What have you got?

Switching from 3.54 to 4.10 will be noticeable. More acceleration, better towing and higher RPM & noise cruising on the highway. Also less gas mileage, I run and like 4.10 with 31" tires. I also tow and do not mind spinning the engine a little to run 70 MPH.

Is it worth it? Up to you. Also worth considering rear ends are a bit tricky and time consuming to work on.

9"? I have a used 4.10 Trac lock 3rd member if you are interested. I just swapped the other way; 4.10 to 3.50

Every penny...unless your driving long distance.}>

I would be interested if he passes. Splines#?

Any reason not in your description that you are wanting a locker? Seems counterproductive (price-wise at least) to put one in. I understand the "might as well, while I'm there" thing, but a locker for your casual and occasional use? Doesn't seem necessary to me.
Anyway, just wondering. But it sure would be less expensive if you do without the locker.

Oh, and yes it's a noticeable difference. But as said, to become a worthwhile difference it depends a lot on what you've got.
After all, it's "only" going to change it 400rpm at 65mph if you have a 31" effective height tire (that's 15.5" from center of hub to ground with the full weight of the truck on it) tires. Doesn't sound like a lot, but you would be surprised.

Good luck.

Paul

What is your truck, engine, transmission, 2 or 4 wheel? Hard to advise you without more information.

I will say that if you just want to accelerate quicker, spend the $1000 on the engine for a much bigger bang for your buck.

I have a 78 f250 with a mildly built 400 in it, roughly 450 to 500hp accord to dyno simulators. I have 33inch tires, its going to be part time 4wd as of now its rwd. I want the locker because as of now its an open diff and like you said might as well while im there.

also have a dana 60

31 spline. It's missing a yoke as I had to rob it for the new 3rd member I built which was missing one.

was running fine when I pulled it this spring, drove for 5 years on it myself

You likely have a warm cam in that engine that likes more gear. Also larger tires. I think 4.10 is much better suited to that combo.

I take it you meant warn. Why would you think i have a warn cam? My cam is around .560 lift at the valve for both exhaust and intake. I forget the exact specs to be honest

I have 410 gears for front and rear I think I would trade (not sell because that is prohibited here) you for your 354s if they are in similar condition. I understand 60s front and rear?

I have a 44 front and 60 rear. Both have 3.54s. Where are you located to trade?

Let me know Kyle, PM me. Pics if possible.

I did mean "warm" meaning high lift/high overlap. With .560 lift I think so. The engine makes its torque and power at higher RPM vs stock. A higher numerical rear gear ratio will help the truck accelerate better by helping the engine run faster.