how do I id gear ratio in my rear end

[Rangerdave73]

how do I id gear ratio in my rear end i have a '88 ranger that i'd like to see if I could get a little better fuel milage and I don't know what's under there

 

[kunar]

http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/Axles.html

 

[Rangerdave73]

great thanks now I know I have a 3:73. I just put a 5sp tranny in it .It was an automatic. The rpms are 2700 at 70mph and it goes up to 3000 at 78mph. I had a '87 years ago it got 32mpg this one gets 17-18 on the hwy any suggestions?

 

[fastpakr]

Check your memory. After 8 or 9 years on the forums, the best (reliable) fuel economy numbers I've ever seen on a 2.9 were 26mpg on the highway at a sustained cruising speed on flat ground. A 2.3 can do 27-28 under optimum conditions. 30 isn't in the range for any Ranger engine.

 

[kunar]

Check your memory. After 8 or 9 years on the forums, the best (reliable) fuel economy numbers I've ever seen on a 2.9 were 26mpg on the highway at a sustained cruising speed on flat ground. A 2.3 can do 27-28 under optimum conditions. 30 isn't in the range for any Ranger engine.

atleast not in a ranger. i wouldnt be surprised if a 2.3 or a 3.0 could pull 30 mpg in a light 2wd car. a ranger, or any truck in general, isnt very aerodynamic.