What's it take to get out of a 4:10 rear end?

[Brian Jacob]

Does anyone know what's involved in changing the rear drive ratio from 4:10 LS to 3:73 or 3:55 on a 1995 350 Club Wagon? The guy I purchased this beast from towed heavy boats in hilly New Hampshire and I'm towing motorcycles on flat I-95. Running over 60 this van seems to be wound up higher than it should, and while the continuous turbo whistle can be entertaining, the fuel burn rate is just short of stunning. (Having just retired a 6.2 GM that got 22 mpg summer/ 19 winter)

Just curious what it takes - the whole axle or just some parts inside? Is this a Ford job? Or are there shops (hopefully Boston/New England area) that can handle it? And of course, how expensive?

[Aceman]

BigHeavyVan,I believe all you will require is a new ring and pinion gear along with new gear oil.
Any competent rear end shop or Ford dealer can swap out the gears and perform the necessary work needed to ensure your rpms will match up properly after the swap.
As far as price,I only know that my blown up Dana 60 would have cost me about $1100.00 with parts and labor if it wasn't covered under warranty. This involved a new carrier assy. and ring/pinion gear.
I'll guess the swap will cost you about $400.00 or more depending on the labor rates in your area.
A 3:55 gear would yield the best mileage if you don't plan on towing heavy loads. Then again 3:73 gears would be the best of both worlds.

Another option is to search for a complete rearend (used in good condition) for your model/year van as it's easier to swap the complete rearend rather than disassemble and setup the backlash on the new gears.

Good luck on your quest!

On edit,where are my manners!! [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif[/img]
Welcome to the site!! [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggrin.gif[/img]

Tom

[HeyBob]

Another member found a complete assembly Kensington Motors

They shipped it to him and he reported no problems. Much cheaper than the dealer or a ring and pinion change.