What is the best axle ratio for a Ram 3500?
When it comes to the Ram 3500, the optimal axle ratio can make a significant difference in your truck's performance and capabilities. The axle ratio is a critical factor that determines the balance between power, fuel efficiency, and towing capacity. In this article, we'll explore the best axle ratio options for the Ram 3500 and help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Axle Ratios
The axle ratio refers to the number of times the driveshaft rotates for every single rotation of the rear wheels. A higher axle ratio, such as 4.10:1, means the driveshaft rotates more times per wheel revolution, providing more torque and power. A lower axle ratio, like 3.73:1, results in better fuel efficiency but less towing capacity.
Factors to Consider
When choosing the best axle ratio for your Ram 3500, you'll need to consider the following factors:
- Towing Capacity: If you plan to tow heavy loads, a higher axle ratio (4.10:1 or 4.30:1) will provide more torque and power to handle the extra weight.
- Fuel Efficiency: A lower axle ratio (3.73:1 or 3.92:1) will result in better fuel economy, especially during highway driving.
- Performance: A higher axle ratio will give your Ram 3500 more low-end torque and acceleration, but may sacrifice some top-end speed.
- Terrain: If you frequently drive in hilly or mountainous areas, a higher axle ratio can be beneficial to maintain power and momentum.
By carefully weighing these factors, you can determine the best axle ratio for your specific needs and driving conditions.
Recommended Axle Ratios for the Ram 3500
Based on the considerations above, here are the recommended axle ratios for the Ram 3500:
- For Maximum Towing Capacity: 4.10:1 or 4.30:1 axle ratio
- For Improved Fuel Efficiency: 3.73:1 or 3.92:1 axle ratio
- For a Balance of Power and Efficiency: 3.92:1 axle ratio
Ultimately, the best axle ratio for your Ram 3500 will depend on your specific needs and driving requirements. By understanding the trade-offs and making an informed decision, you can ensure your truck is optimized for your intended use.
Is a 3.73 gear ratio good for towing?
3.73 is good towing ratio, 4.10 is better and 3.42 is about as high a ratio to use for towing and performance. The higher ratios (lower numerically) are more fuel efficient which is why the 3.08 is now the default ratio in most new truck whereas 10 yrs ago it was the 3.73, gives better fuel ecomony on average.
Which RAM axle ratio is best for towing?
Performance: Looking again at the ratios used above, the higher 3.55 ratio indicates faster acceleration whether the truck's empty or loaded. The higher the ratio, the more revolutions per minute. Towing: For pickup trucks released after 2010, the best axle ratio for towing falls somewhere between 3.55 and 3.73.
What is the best axle ratio for the Ram 3500?
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.
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.
Is a 3.42 axle ratio good for towing?
For instance, the 3.42:1 ratio included on many Canyon V-6 and Sierra 1500 models offers a good all-around blend. That said, if you regularly tow heavy trailers or prefer a peppier feel in acceleration, consider a truck equipped with a higher numeric axle ratio.
What rear end ratio is best for towing?
The most popular rear end ratio in trucks today is the 3:55, which sort of averages towing power and fuel economy. This is a good ratio for the occasional towing or hauling individual. For a person who tows more often, and heavier loads, the 3:73 or 4:10 may be more appropriate.
What axle ratio is best for towing?
A numerically higher axle ratio provides a mechanical advantage to send more of the engine's available torque to the rear tires (and front tires, in a four-wheel drive vehicle), but you pay the price at the fuel pump. So, a truck with optional 3.73 gears will tow a heavier trailer than one with 3.55 or 3.21.
What is the towing capacity of a 3.21 axle ratio?
2024 Ram 1500 Classic Towing Chart
| 2024 Ram Classic | REG CAB 4X2 | QUAD CAB 4X2 |
|---|---|---|
| 3.21 AXLE RATIO | 7,240 LBS | 6,870 LBS |
| 3.55 AXLE RATIO | 9,290 LBS | 8,920 LBS |
| 3.92 AXLE RATIO | 9,210 LBS | 10,470 LBS |
| RAM 1500 5.7L V8 8-SPEED |
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.
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.
