Rear end advice needed

[BobSacamano]

I have a 1996 Standard cab 2.3 2WD with manual transmission. My stock rear end is 3.73 7.5 with 9 inch drum brakes. I am currently running 31x10.5x 15 tires with a leveling kit. I like the way it looks and it drives decently, although a little slow on takeoff and climbing hills. After putting on the Skyjacker coils, I think I can easily put on 32 inch tires. This is just for looks: I don't off-road, So my question: Should I change my rearend? If so, to what? In nearby junkyards I have found 4.10 7.5 with 9 inch brakes, 4.10 7.5 with 10 inch brakes, 4.10 8.8 9 in brakes and a 4.10 8.8 LS with 10 inch brakes. What do y'all think?

 

[scotts90ranger]

I would definitely go 4.10's, I have them in my '97 and even with 235 75 15 tires I didn't like how often I had to switch between 4th and 5th on slight inclines...

Which brakes is up to you but it would be a perfect time to get the bigger brakes...

 

[BobSacamano]

Should I go with 8.8 or would 7.5 be ok?

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

IMO 7.5 is fine for what you say you want.

 

[Curious Hound]

The 4.10s will make it feel better. 7.5" or 8.8" probably a toss-up for your stated usage. But that limited slip 8.8" with 4.10's would be my choice by miles. Limited slip would be nice if you ever get into sand, light mud or even snow. The 10" brakes are a good little safety upgrade.

 

[BobSacamano]

Thank y’all so much!