Need input on gear selection on a truck
Need input on gear selection on a truck
My dad's getting ready to order a new dodge truck. Its a cummins turbo diesel with 4X4, he has the choice between a 3.73 gear ratio and a 4.23 ratio. Can you guys tell me which way to steer him. He has a horse farm but will probably be selling the horses in the future. He will be doing some towing but not every day type thing.
Zombie Slayer
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 6,053
Likes: 3
From: East Bumble F, NJ
I would say 4.23 for that "stump pulling" low end, but if he plans on some highway miles, the 4.23 will kill him in fuel cost! If the truck will primarily be a work truck, relegated to towing, hauling, etc., my selection would be 4.23.
Lexus Fanatic
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 94,575
Likes: 265
From: Virginia/D.C. suburbs
The 4.23 will give more engine RPM's in each gear, more power, more engine braking effect, more hauling and towing capability, have lower cruising speeds before hitting redline, lessen the need to downshift at low speeds, and make the vehicle less likely to get bogged down in the rough and a more sure-footed off-road. However, it will also add to engine noise, use more fuel, wear out quicker from more RPM's, and create more heat underhood.
The 3.73, on the other hand, will use less fuel, have less engine noise, less engine-braking effect, create less heat, require more downshifting at low speeds, have less power for towing and hauling, have higher cruising speeds before hitting redline, and be not quite as sure-footed off-road.
So......your dad will have to choose between what is more important for the particular use he will be giving this truck. That's a decision only he can make.
The 3.73, on the other hand, will use less fuel, have less engine noise, less engine-braking effect, create less heat, require more downshifting at low speeds, have less power for towing and hauling, have higher cruising speeds before hitting redline, and be not quite as sure-footed off-road.
So......your dad will have to choose between what is more important for the particular use he will be giving this truck. That's a decision only he can make.
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