MyVans Your Vehicle Solution If you’re looking to improve your truck’s performance, you might want to consider changing the gear ratio. By changing the gear ratio, you can improve acceleration, towing capacity, and fuel efficiency. In this article, we’ll show you how to change the gear ratio on a truck.
Understanding Gear Ratios
The gear ratio is the ratio between the number of teeth on the ring gear and the number of teeth on the pinion gear. For example, if the ring gear has 41 teeth and the pinion gear has 10 teeth, the gear ratio is 4.10:1. The gear ratio determines how many times the driveshaft rotates for each rotation of the wheels.
Choosing the Right Gear Ratio
The right gear ratio depends on your truck’s intended use. If you want better acceleration and towing capacity, you’ll want a lower gear ratio. If you want better fuel efficiency and higher top speed, you’ll want a higher gear ratio. It’s important to choose a gear ratio that’s appropriate for your truck’s engine, transmission, and tire size.
Gathering the Tools and Supplies
To change the gear ratio, you’ll need a few tools and supplies, including a new ring and pinion gear set, a carrier bearing puller, a torque wrench, a bearing splitter, a dial indicator, and marking compound. You’ll also need a differential spreader or a hydraulic press to remove and install the carrier bearings.
Removing the Old Ring and Pinion Gears
Before you can install the new gear set, you’ll need to remove the old ring and pinion gears. Start by removing the differential cover and draining the gear oil. Then, remove the pinion shaft and pinion gear. Next, remove the carrier assembly and remove the old ring gear from the carrier.
Installing the New Ring and Pinion Gears
Once you’ve removed the old gear set, it’s time to install the new one. Start by installing the new ring gear onto the carrier using the marking compound to ensure proper alignment. Then, install the pinion gear and adjust the pinion depth using the dial indicator. Finally, install the carrier assembly and adjust the backlash using the marking compound.
Reassembling the Differential
With the new gear set installed, it’s time to reassemble the differential. Reinstall the pinion shaft and carrier bearings using the differential spreader or hydraulic press. Then, reinstall the differential cover and fill the differential with the recommended gear oil.
Final Thoughts
Changing the gear ratio on a truck can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and knowledge, it’s possible to do it yourself. Remember to choose the right gear ratio for your truck’s intended use, and take your time during the installation process to ensure everything is properly aligned and adjusted.
