What is the gear ratio for the F250?

There isn’t a single gear ratio for the Ford F-250; rear-axle options span roughly 3.31:1 to 4.30:1 depending on year and configuration. The exact ratio for your truck is listed on the window sticker or VIN/build sheet.

Knowing the gear ratio helps balance highway efficiency with towing and payload performance. This article explains the range of ratios Ford has offered for the F-250, how to identify the correct one for a specific truck, and where to verify it.

Common rear-axle ratio options for recent F-250 models

Below is a snapshot of the rear-axle options Ford has made available on recent F-250 Super Duty models. Availability varies by trim, cab configuration, drivetrain, and model year.

• 3.31:1


• 3.55:1


• 3.73:1


• 4.10:1


• 4.30:1

Actual ratios on a specific truck depend on the chosen options and drivetrain package. Always verify with the vehicle’s paperwork or a dealer.

How to determine the exact gear ratio on your F-250

To confirm the precise rear-axle ratio on your Ford F-250, use the following methods. Each method will help you pinpoint the correct gear ratio for your truck.

1. Check the Monroney (window) sticker on a new or recently purchased vehicle. The axle ratio is usually listed under the vehicle’s specifications.


2. Decode the VIN using Ford’s official VIN decoder or a trusted service. The decoder will display axle information if the vehicle supports it.


3. Review the build sheet or order sheet from the dealership or the Ford Owner Portal (if available for your year). It lists standard and optional components, including the rear axle.


4. Inspect the differential tag or stamping on the axle itself. Some trucks have a tag on the differential cover or a stamping that shows the ratio (e.g., “3.73” or “4.30”).


5. Consult the owner’s manual or contact the dealer with your VIN for a precise confirmation. They can pull your specific axle configuration from Ford’s systems.

Knowing the exact axle ratio is essential for proper towing calculations, maintenance planning, and fuel-economy expectations. If you’re shopping used, verify the ratio to ensure it matches your towing needs.

Why gear ratio matters

A lower numerical ratio (e.g., 3.31:1) generally improves highway fuel economy and reduces engine RPM at speed, while a higher numerical ratio (e.g., 4.30:1) usually boosts low-speed torque for heavy payloads and towing. The right ratio depends on how you plan to use the truck—daily driving, towing large trailers, or off-road work.

Summary

The Ford F-250 offers multiple rear-axle ratios, typically ranging from about 3.31:1 to 4.30:1 in recent years. The exact ratio for any given truck is determined by its configuration and is listed on the window sticker or VIN/build sheet. To confirm, check the sticker, use a VIN decoder, review the build sheet, or consult a dealer.

What is the differential ratio of the Ford F250?

FORD F250 SUPER DUTY PICKUP 23-24 11.60" ring gear, w/o limited slip differential; 3.31 ratio.

Is 3.31 or 3.55 axle ratio better?

A 3.55 axle ratio is better for towing and hauling because it provides more torque for quicker acceleration and reduces strain on the engine when climbing hills. A 3.31 axle ratio is better for fuel economy on the highway, as it results in lower engine RPMs for a given speed. 
Choose 3.55 if you:

• Prioritize towing or hauling: It gives you more pulling power for heavy loads and reduces the need for frequent downshifting on inclines. 
• Plan to install larger tires: Larger tires can negate the benefits of a 3.31 ratio, and the 3.55 ratio compensates for the added size. 
• Drive in mountainous or hilly terrain: This ratio keeps the engine in its power band on steep grades, even with a heavy load. 

Choose 3.31 if you:

• Prioritize fuel economy: It will generally provide better gas mileage on the highway because the engine runs at a lower RPM. 
• Primarily drive on highways: It's ideal for comfortable highway cruising where you don't need maximum pulling power. 
• Towing needs are moderate: For lighter towing or flat-ground towing, the 3.31 ratio is often sufficient. 

Is a 3.73 ratio good for towing?

Yes, 3.73 gears are good for towing because their higher numerical ratio provides more torque, which improves performance when pulling heavy loads. While they offer better towing power and low-end acceleration, they result in higher engine RPMs, lower top speed, and poorer fuel economy compared to lower gear ratios like 3.55. 
This video explains the benefits of 3.73 gears for towing: 1mGetty's GarageYouTube · Jun 1, 2024
Advantages for towing

• More torque: The higher gear ratio gives the vehicle a mechanical advantage, translating more engine torque to the wheels for pulling heavy loads. 
• Better performance: They provide better performance for towing, especially for heavy loads and stop-and-go traffic, and are an upgrade for trucks with lower gears like 3.15 or 3.55. 
• Improved acceleration: They can improve off-the-line performance and acceleration, which is helpful when getting a heavy trailer moving. 

Disadvantages for towing

• Higher RPMs: The engine will operate at a higher RPM while cruising, which can lead to a less comfortable ride and worse fuel economy. 
• Lower top speed: The overall top speed is reduced. 
• Fuel consumption: Fuel economy is generally lower, especially on the highway, compared to a truck with a lower gear ratio. 

You can watch this video to see the effect of gearing on RPMs while towing: 58sGreat Lakes PowerstrokeFX4YouTube · Mar 14, 2025
When 3.73 gears may not be ideal 

• If you have a vehicle with a high-revving engine, like some V10s, 3.73 gears may keep the engine out of its optimal powerband, leading to a miserable towing experience, as detailed on Quora. 
• If your primary use is highway cruising and you rarely tow, lower gears like 3.55 are better for fuel economy and a quieter ride. 

Are 3.73 or 4.10 gears better?

Neither 3.73 nor 4.10 gears are inherently "better"; the choice depends on your driving priorities. 4.10 gears provide quicker acceleration and more torque, which is ideal for performance or heavy towing, but at the cost of lower fuel economy and higher engine RPMs at highway speeds. 3.73 gears offer better fuel economy and a higher top speed because the engine runs at a lower RPM on the highway, making them better for general cruising and long-distance driving. 
You can watch this video to see the difference in acceleration between 3.73 and 4.10 gears: 56sTheKingCoopaYouTube · Dec 17, 2021
4.10 gears

• Pros:
  • Quicker acceleration and a faster feel off the line. 
  • More torque, making them better for towing heavy loads. 
• Cons:
  • Lower fuel economy. 
  • Higher engine RPMs at highway speeds, which can lead to more engine noise. 

3.73 gears 

• Pros:
  • Better fuel economy. 
  • Higher top speed because the engine runs at lower RPMs on the highway. 
  • Quieter and more comfortable for highway cruising. 
• Cons:
  • Slower acceleration compared to 4.10 gears. 
  • Less torque for towing. 

This video demonstrates the difference in cruising speed RPMs between 3.73 and 4.10 gears: 1m2Val_bYouTube · May 29, 2020
How to choose

• Choose 4.10s if: Your priority is performance, and you want a vehicle that feels quick off the line. They are also a good choice if you frequently tow heavy loads. 
• Choose 3.73s if: Your priority is fuel economy and comfortable, quiet highway cruising. They are a better all-around choice for a daily driver or a vehicle that spends most of its time on the open road.