Christophers last questions promise will be quick

[Christopher]

Anybody out there for the love of Fords have experienced a better gear in the rear of a 7.5 possible posi traction. I want to start spending money in this area first. Im keeping in mind also for the future upgrade to the 4.0 engine once the 2.9 is deceased. What works well with 2.9 and 4.0. The roads here on Mauii are windy and it seems Im driving uphill more than downhill. I dont need much top end because no long straight roads anyway but lots of uphill. I want to travel uphill for five miles at 65 mph in fourth gear at least without red lining the 2.9. Is this reality or just a fantasy? The Yotas pass me with their stock four cylinders on this only stretch of long straight highway. Can it be done Ranger Nation? Also what is wrong with my 4wd? Push button 4lo and 4hi. I put it in 4lo and go up a steep incline straight and it crawls with ease. If I am on flat ground and the grass is slippery and no traction to the rear I put it in 4lo or 4 hi and the front wheels never even turn. Also if truck is counter levered slightly the front will never hook up. It only likes to go straight up steep hills or inclines with relative ease. I have the auto lockers and am suspicious that this might be the problem. This is my first 4x4 truck and Im not ready to commit to full monster truck stardom. It is an addiction I have heard but I really just want a decent 4wd. The roads here are quite knarly and can absolutely destroy ball joints and bushings of any vehicle. Im from Georgia and even the worst mud hole doesnt compare to some of this inpenetrable Lava flows with razor sharp rocks. Even the paved roads have the ripple effect and should be a test ground for suspension instead of an actual road. I need a good shock that will absorb these hideous conditions both front and rear. Any suggestions? I have either a four or six inch suspension lift I havent measured it yet. My shocks do not absorb nothing and I feel like a rattle trap being chased by a big mouth bass. Somebody please help me!!!

 

[IMenriched]

yes.. your hubs in all likelyhood are not engaging correctly...check out the Tech Library (here on TRS) it has a host of EXCELLENT infomation...to vast array of issues/questions that you're experencing.

 

[MAKG]

With a 2.9L and near-stock-size tires (31x10.5 will fit without any lift or fender trimming, but perhaps P235 75R14 is better -- that's 29 inches), I suggest 4.10 with Posi, or a locker. Given what the terrain is like over there -- mud in some places, high traction SHARP rocks in others -- I'd suggest a Posi (AKA limited slip), rather than a locker.