How do I find the axle ratio on my F250?
Understanding your F250's axle ratio is crucial for tasks like towing, off-roading, or optimizing fuel efficiency. The axle ratio determines how many times the driveshaft rotates to turn the wheels once, and it directly impacts your truck's performance. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to locate and identify the axle ratio on your Ford F250.
Why Knowing Your Axle Ratio Matters
The axle ratio affects your truck's towing capacity, fuel economy, and overall performance. A higher ratio (e.g., 4.10) provides more torque for towing but may reduce fuel efficiency, while a lower ratio (e.g., 3.31) offers better fuel economy but less towing power. Knowing your axle ratio helps you make informed decisions about how to use your truck effectively.
Steps to Find the Axle Ratio on Your F250
There are several ways to determine the axle ratio of your F250. Follow these steps to locate this important information:
- Check the Axle Code on the Door Jamb Sticker: Open the driver-side door and locate the Vehicle Certification Label (also known as the door jamb sticker). Look for the "Axle" or "AX" code. This code corresponds to your axle ratio, which you can decode using a Ford axle ratio chart available online or in your owner's manual.
- Inspect the Differential Housing: Some F250 models have a metal tag attached to the differential housing. This tag often includes the axle ratio stamped on it. Look for numbers like "3.73" or "4.10" on the tag.
- Use the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number): Your F250's VIN can be used to determine the axle ratio. Contact a Ford dealership or use an online VIN decoder tool to retrieve detailed specifications about your truck, including the axle ratio.
- Consult the Owner's Manual: The owner's manual for your F250 may include information about the axle ratio, especially if your truck came with a specific towing or performance package.
- Perform a Manual Check: If all else fails, you can manually calculate the axle ratio. Jack up the rear of the truck (ensure safety precautions are in place), mark the driveshaft and tire, and count how many times the driveshaft rotates for one full rotation of the tire. This will give you an approximate axle ratio.
Common Axle Ratios for the Ford F250
Ford F250 trucks typically come with a range of axle ratios depending on the model year and configuration. Common ratios include:
- 3.31: Optimized for fuel efficiency.
- 3.55: A balance between towing capacity and fuel economy.
- 3.73: Ideal for moderate towing and performance.
- 4.10: Designed for heavy towing and maximum torque.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you're unable to locate or decode your axle ratio, or if you suspect modifications have been made to your truck's drivetrain, it's a good idea to consult a professional mechanic. At Kevin's Autos, we specialize in helping truck owners understand and optimize their vehicles for their specific needs. Feel free to contact us for assistance!
By knowing your F250's axle ratio, you can ensure your truck is ready for any task, whether it's towing a heavy trailer or maximizing fuel efficiency on long road trips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my VIN number tell me my gear ratio?
You don't. That information is not contained in the VIN, UNLESS a specific model only gets one rear end ratio. VIN tells country of manufacture, vehicle make, class, engine type, size, date of manufacture, plant and serial number. That is the ONLY information contained by the VIN.
How to find axle ratio on F250?
To determine the axle ratio of your vehicle, locate the two-digit axle code first, then use your vehicle's towing guide to find the axle ratio that corresponds to that code. If your vehicle has a limited-slip differential, it will be noted as Limited Slip.
What is the axle ratio on a 6.7 PowerStroke?
Consider a PowerStroke 6.7-liter diesel that offers a choice of a 3.31, 3.55, 3.73 or 4.30 axle ratio. The 3.31 might be capable of towing the trailer. But if you are towing the majority of the time, you probably want the 3.55 because it will tow better and provide better fuel economy loaded.
What is the best axle ratio for the F250 diesel?
The 4:10:1 ratio is an excellent choice for this application as it will get the truck up to speed faster without sacrificing highway driving.
Where do I find my axle size?
Look for markings. Before trying to measure your axle, look for markings on it. Many times, the dimensions are laser etched on the axle. Your frame or fork manufacturer should also be able to give you the dimensions.
Which is better, 3.73 or 4.10 axle ratio?
ARE 3.73 OR 4.10 GEARS BETTER? Use this rule of thumb: The shorter the gear ratio (higher number), the easier it will be for the vehicle to start moving and accelerating! This will, however, lower the top speed of the vehicle.
What gear ratio is a Ford F250?
The 4:10:1 ratio is an excellent choice for this application as it will get the truck up to speed faster without sacrificing highway driving.
How do I tell what axle ratio I have?
Method 1: Count the number of teeth on the ring gear and the pinion. Divide the number of the ring gear's teeth by the number of the pinion's teeth. This will give you the axle ratio.
How to find gear ratio by VIN Ford?
The vin number won't tell you the gear ratio. You need to either get the number off of the rear itself or find the rpo numbers. On some the rpo numbers can be found usually in the glove box on a sticker.
Where is the gear ratio stamped?
All right with the cover off and the gears wiped down you can see that there is some stampings on the outside of this ring gear. One of these is going to indicate the gear ratio.
