Originally posted by '4x4junkie' date='Jun 21 2006, 02:25 AM'
Strength & reliability upgrades:
*Swap those problematic automatic 4WD hubs for manual ones ('83-'97 w/TTB suspension)
-hub conversion kit (much cheaper than Warn's kit)
*Keep those 'loose' hubs affixed to the rotors
*Fix your '98-'00 PVH 4WD hubs for good:
Option one
Option two
*Swap out the weak '83-'89 Dana28 front axle for the stronger '90-'97 HP Dana35
*Beefier manual hub upgrade for your front Dana35
*More beef for your Dana35 front axle shafts
*Swap in the strength of a 31-spline rear axle:
Explorer 8.8" axle into a Ranger
If you get lucky enough to find an FX4 (LevelII) 8.8" axle
*Cure the vibrating two-piece driveshaft on your lifted Supercab truck
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Useful information:
*Identifying what front axle you have
*Identifying what rear axle (& gear ratio) you have
*What is a "locker", "Posi", "limited slip" or "open" differential?
_________________
Axle gear ratio recommendations for bigger tires:
These ratios will provide the best balance between power and fuel economy. Do not fear the gear, MPG has often been found to be better in many cases vs. when running gears taller than what's listed here (especially with the 2.9L engine).
ALL RBV engines EXCEPT 4.0L V6:
29" tires = 4.10
31" tires = 4.56
33" tires = 4.88 (N/A D28, 7.5")
35" tires = 5.13 (N/A D28, D35-SLA)
4.0L V6 engine:
29" tires = 3.73
31" tires = 4.10
33" tires = 4.56
35" tires = 4.88
37" tires = 5.13 (N/A D35-SLA IFS)
For very early Rangers without overdrive transmission:
Use 4.0L chart
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