To regear or not to regear

[Just_Randy]

So, what about u-joints and lower gears? Ever notice u-joints go out more with the lower gears? Or no? Is it a big deal? Or not even worth considering???

31 inch tires are big enough. I'll never go bigger. I'm either welding the front or getting a locker (probably the locker). I'll most likely lock the back as well.

Why do you say 4.56?

 

[Ranger44]

Because it would be the proper gearing to keep the 3.0 in it's proper powerband(right around 3,000 rpm).

Now the low end torque monster like the 4.0 wouldn't require such a jump, and would most likely be fine with the 3.73's.

 

[4x4junkie]

I haven't seen any u-joint failures directly because of RPM (I run 5.13 gears in mine with 35s, about the same effective ratio as 4.56 & 31s)

Sounds like maybe you had a driveshaft balance issue (or too much angle on it somewhere)

I agree, go 4.56 with your 3.0L, you won't regret it

 

[Just_Randy]

So, everybody votes 4.56. Would you guys be ok with 3100 rpms on the highway for miles n miles??? The speed limit here is 70 and everybody goes 80, so with 4.56 I'd be pulling 3100 rpms. 2200 rpm at 55mph. Sound good???

 

[Ranger44]

That's where it needs to be......

 

[4x4junkie]

3.0s like rpm. If you had a 4.0, then I'd say stick with the 4.10s.