What axle ratio does my Ram 1500 have?
As a proud owner of a Ram 1500, you may be curious about the specifics of your vehicle's performance, including its axle ratio. The axle ratio is a crucial factor that affects your truck's towing capacity, fuel efficiency, and overall performance. In this article, we will explore how to determine the axle ratio of your Ram 1500 and what it means for your driving experience.
What is Axle Ratio?
The axle ratio refers to the number of revolutions the driveshaft makes in relation to the number of revolutions the wheels make. For example, a 3.55:1 axle ratio means that the driveshaft turns 3.55 times for every one turn of the wheels. This ratio plays a significant role in how your vehicle accelerates, its fuel economy, and its towing capabilities.
How to Find the Axle Ratio of Your Ram 1500
There are several methods to determine the axle ratio of your Ram 1500:
- Check the Owner's Manual: Your vehicle's owner's manual often contains specifications, including the axle ratio.
- Look for the RPO Code: The RPO (Regular Production Option) code can be found on a sticker inside the glove compartment. Look for codes like GU6, GT4, or GT5, which indicate different axle ratios.
- Inspect the Differential: If you're comfortable with mechanical work, you can inspect the differential. Count the number of teeth on the ring gear and the pinion gear, then divide the ring gear teeth by the pinion gear teeth to find the ratio.
- Contact a Dealer: If you're unsure, contacting a local Ram dealership can provide you with the exact axle ratio based on your vehicle's VIN.
Why Does Axle Ratio Matter?
The axle ratio significantly impacts your Ram 1500's performance. Here are a few reasons why it matters:
- Towing Capacity: A lower axle ratio (like 3.21) is better for fuel efficiency, while a higher ratio (like 3.92) enhances towing capacity.
- Acceleration: Higher axle ratios provide quicker acceleration, making them ideal for performance-oriented driving.
- Fuel Economy: Lower ratios can improve fuel economy during highway driving, as the engine runs at lower RPMs.
Conclusion
Understanding the axle ratio of your Ram 1500 is essential for optimizing its performance and ensuring it meets your driving needs. Whether you're towing heavy loads or simply cruising on the highway, knowing your axle ratio can help you make informed decisions about your vehicle's maintenance and upgrades. If you have any further questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us at Kevin's Autos!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which RAM axle ratio is best for towing?
FACT: A 3.73 axle ratio is ideal for towing heavy loads on flat terrain and will produce increased fuel economy during steady-state, long-distance highway driving.
Which is better, 3.21 or 3.92 axle ratio?
The standard 3.21 axle ratio then gets you a maximum tow rating of 8,440 pounds. Go with the 3.92 gearing and the tow rating jumps up to 11,540 pounds — a massive 3,100-pound difference.
How do I identify my Ram differential?
If the ID tag or stamp is missing or unreadable, differentials can be identified by the number of cover bolts, the distinctive shape of the cover, the number of ring gear bolts, and ring gear diameter. They can also be identified by whether the center section is an integral or dropout design.
What is my axle ratio on a Ram 1500?
If you look at the '19 Ram 1500 sales literature, or the online ordering screens, you will see that the 3.21 non-limited slip axle ratio is standard across the line, with the exception of the Rebel.
What gets better gas mileage, 3.73 or 4.10 gears?
a 4.10 has a huge impact on engine rpm because you are selecting second gear with a 3.73 to pull the grade, but you can hit third gear with a 4.10. Your engine speed is about 1,000 rpm lower, so temperatures under hood are going to be significantly lower. Higher numerical ratios often increase fuel consumption.
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.
Which RAM has 3.92 rear axle ratio in Ram 1500?
2023/2024 Ram 1500 Classic Towing Chart
| 2023/2024 Ram Classic | REG CAB 4X2 | QUAD CAB 4X2 |
|---|---|---|
| 3.92 AXLE RATIO | ||
| RAM 1500 3.0L DIESEL | ||
| 3.55 AXLE RATIO | 8,240 LBS | 8,070 LBS |
| 3.92 AXLE RATIO | 9,210 LBS | 9,070 LBS |
Does the VIN number tell you the 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.
What is the towing capacity of a 3.21 axle ratio?
You would be overweight. Towing capacity for the 3.21 is around 8100 lbs and that trailer is a GVWR of 9000 lbs. The dry weight is around 7500 lbs which is just under the towing capacity.
What is the best gear ratio for towing a Dodge Ram 1500?
A 4.10 rear axle ratio is ideal for towing larger 5th Wheel or Gooseneck trailers. FACT: A 3.73 axle ratio is ideal for towing heavy loads on flat terrain and will produce increased fuel economy during steady-state, long-distance highway driving.
