Changing Rear end on 98 Ranger

[conyers73]

I am considering changing out my rear end on my 98 Ranger. It has a 5-spd. with a 3:45 ratio. I am thinking of changing it for a 3:73. Would there be any advantages or dis-advantages to making this change??

ps. The truck seems to need shifting more than necessary, especially at low speeds.

Many thanks

 

[willy]

Gas mileage for highway driving my 2000 had the 4.0 5spd and 4.10 i averaged 10mpg on 33s

 

[Earl43P]

I average 17-20 mpg, mixed driving with a 3.0 MO5D 4.10s and 235/65-16 tires.

I sure wouldn't want 3.45s in a hilly area with an automatic transmission, especially with taller than stock tires!

 

[tinman_72]

I went from 7.5" open 3.45's to 8.8" LSD 3.73 in my '93 four cylinder. I couldn't tell much of a difference. Oh well, I did it more for the LSD than for the 3.73's.