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What is the diff ratio for a Model T?

The diff ratio, or differential ratio, of the Ford Model T was 3.78:1. This means that for every 3.78 rotations of the driveshaft, the rear wheels would rotate once. This gear ratio was an important design feature that contributed to the Model T's performance and efficiency.


Understanding the Diff Ratio of the Model T


The differential is a crucial component in a vehicle's drivetrain, responsible for transmitting power from the engine to the wheels while allowing them to rotate at different speeds. The diff ratio, also known as the final drive ratio, determines the relationship between the rotational speed of the driveshaft and the rotational speed of the wheels.


In the case of the Ford Model T, the diff ratio of 3.78:1 meant that the rear wheels would rotate 3.78 times for every single rotation of the driveshaft. This gear reduction allowed the Model T to deliver a good balance of torque and speed, making it well-suited for the roads and terrain of the early 20th century.


Advantages of the Model T's Diff Ratio



  • Improved Torque: The 3.78:1 diff ratio provided the Model T with a significant amount of low-end torque, allowing the car to climb hills and navigate challenging terrain more easily.

  • Fuel Efficiency: The gear reduction enabled the Model T's engine to operate at a lower, more efficient rpm, resulting in better fuel economy.

  • Top Speed: While the Model T's top speed was relatively low compared to modern vehicles, the diff ratio allowed it to reach a respectable top speed of around 45 mph.


The Model T's diff ratio was a key factor in its design, contributing to the car's overall performance, efficiency, and suitability for the driving conditions of the time.

What gets better gas mileage, 3.73 or 4.10 gears?


To keep it simple, if you want a daily driver and want to save a little on fuel and you care about performance but don't want screaming RPM, then taller gears like the 3.73 ring and pinion are the way to go.



Which is better, 3.73 or 4.10 axle ratio?


Performance Relative to Use
That 3.73 vs. 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.



What is the diff ratio of the Model T?


The Model T rear axle's differential contained a pinion wheel with 11 teeth and a crown wheel with 40 teeth, thus giving a final drive ratio of 40/11 = 3.6363:1.



What is the best rear end ratio?


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.



Did the Ford Model T have a differential?


The heavy-duty Model TT truck chassis came with a special worm gear rear differential with lower gearing than the normal car and truck, giving more pulling power but a lower top speed (the frame is also stronger; the cab and engine are the same).



Did the Model T have a differential?


Power reaches the differential through a single universal joint attached to a torque tube which drives the rear axle; some models (typically trucks, but available for cars, as well) could be equipped with an optional two-speed rear Ruckstell axle, shifted by a floor-mounted lever which provides an underdrive gear for ...



What gear ratios were used in the Ford 8.8 factory?


Traction-Lok differentials have a big S-shaped spring in the center of the differential gears. There's no way to identify this feature from the outside other than reading the tag. The 8.8 was built with the following ratios: 2.26, 2.47, 2.73, 3.08, 3.27, 3.45, 3.55, 3.73 and 4.10:1.



What is the gear ratio of the Model T Ford?


The figures below show calculations for a stock Model T with various gear ratios: 3.64:1 (standard), 4:1 (10 tooth pinion), 3:1 and 5.6:1 (3.64 in Ruckstell low). The graphs show that top speed increases just a bit more than one mph with 3:1 gears, i.e. not much. However, performance in the hills suffers dramatically.



What is Tesla's gear ratio?


Transmission

TypeSpecifications
TypeSingle speed fixed gear
Overall Final Drive RatioSmall motor: 9.0:1 Large motor: 9.7:1
Reverse GearReverse direction of motor, limited to 24 km/h



What is the gear ratio in a Tesla?


Transmission

TypeSpecifications
TypeSingle speed fixed gear
Overall Final Drive RatioSmall motor: 9.0:1 Large motor: 9.7:1
Reverse GearReverse direction of motor, limited to 24 km/h


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.