Regearing F-250 tow pig

[85_Ranger4x4]

1996 F-250, 460/7.5, 2wd, ZF5, 10.25. Dad "got it right" because the rear axle sounded like it was full of hate. Pinion bearings are shot and the pinion is razor sharp... so it needs a new R&P. It had 3.55's originally but since the rear end was out we never tried to tow anything with it before we tore it apart.

So for stock sized tires would 3.73's or 4.10's be a better choice for towing?

 

[Lariat]

We had a 91 with the 351, with 4.10's. Never had an issue with power, but fuel economy was another issue. 3.73's are all right, the 3.55's in our 89 have much to desire, but get maybe 3-4 mpg better than our 91. Personally if it's just going to be a tow rig and nothing else the 4.10's would be my route, but be prepared to hit every gas station with that 460...

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

We had a 91 with the 351, with 4.10's. Never had an issue with power, but fuel economy was another issue. 3.73's are all right, the 3.55's in our 89 have much to desire, but get maybe 3-4 mpg better than our 91. Personally if it's just going to be a tow rig and nothing else the 4.10's would be my route, but be prepared to hit every gas station with that 460...

I don't think fuel economy can be helped much with a 460, it is going to be varying grades of "terrible"

It won't get a ton of miles but I doubt it will get many miles put on it that don't invove the gooseneck.

 

[Lariat]

What all will you be hauling on the gooseneck? That there could be your deciding factor(s)

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

What all will you be hauling on the gooseneck? That there could be your deciding factor(s)

Whatever fits.

Mainly tractors and/or farm equipment.

 

[Will]

My opinion--always the deepest gears you can stomach. I'd put 4.56s in it if all it were doing was towing. With a heavy trailer, it will get better mileage and be a lot more pleasant to tow with.

Why did the axle die? That's almost unheard of. Normally, when the axle dies, someone drove with the parking brake on until the seal melted and let all the fluid out. Ring and pinions don't just wear out.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

Why did the axle die? That's almost unheard of. Normally, when the axle dies, someone drove with the parking brake on until the seal melted and let all the fluid out. Ring and pinions don't just wear out.

Cover had a rust hole and they ran it out of oil until it made noise. They stuck a new cover on it and refilled with oil but the damage had been done.

 

[Will]

Yeah, that's how much I pay attention to axles, too.

The truth in your Kingsley quote has been biting me in the ass hard lately.