Posted by Big Block Driver on December 20, 01 at 07:11:51:
In Reply to: What gears to get? posted by Chris L on December 19, 01 at 08:57:42:
: Well here is the big question. I have a 1990 1500 with a 350 auto w/od 3.42 and LT235x75R15 and I tow a 5-6000lb travle trailer around Texas. I was wondering if I should go with the 3.73 or go all out and get the 4.10? I was not shure if the 4.10 was over kill with that small of tires. I do not want to blow all my gass I just want better low end when towing.
My 94 has 4.10 with the 7.4L. Drives great, but next truck will have the 3.73. Why... When driving empty on the highway at speed (80 mph), the engine is just turning over too fast for my personal liking. I don't like to run over 70-75 for extended periods because at 70 the engine is turning 2400-2500 rpm (as best I remember). The speed limit here is 70, 75 in a bordering state. While I have gobs of power and can easily outpace the traffic flow, I just am uncomfortable running at the required 80-85 to keep up with the flow for very long. Since the 3.73 are about 10% less, the change should drop rpm from 2500 to 2250, much better (quieter, less wear, etc).