What ratio?

[jakerson]

What ratio should I use in a 2.3l 7.5" if I wanna push 33's as a prerunner/daily driver?

 

[Maverick]

If you're set on running the 7.5, 4.56 gears are available and wouldnt be too bad, but 4.88's would be the optimum set-up. Unfortunately they are not available for the 7.5 rear, nor is the 7.5 an axle really worthy of upgrading. I would source an 8.8 out of another Ranger (bolt in) or out of an Explorer (stronger but some minor welding/work required) and upgrade one of those to 4.88's.

 

[jakerson]

What kind of bank/labor am I looking at there?

 

[Beanmachine7000]

If you find a Ranger 8.8" (28 spl) you just unbolt yours and bolt in the new one... An 8.8" (31pl) from an Explorer you have to torch the spring perches and reweld them on top (Explorer is spring under axle, Ranger is spring over axle)

I'd look for an 8.8" from a 4.0 Ranger, it's a direct bolt-in and you'll never blow it up with 33's and a 2.3...

 

[jakerson]

Haha wow I think I'm falling in love with the ease of modifying rangers over the ol 240sx and the g35. Thanks y'all!

 

[Evan]

Get a 1995-01 axle out of an Explorer, and re-weld the perches. Not only does it have stronger 31-spline axles, but you'll score disc brakes as well.

 

[jakerson]

I don't wanna have to depend on my welding though haha. Well what about hardware for the brakes if I go that route?

 

[Beanmachine7000]

Take it to a welding shop, shouldn't cost ya too much for them to spend <20 minutes welding up your perches... No problem with brakes and such... Just hook it all up and drive...