What is the rear diff ratio of a Triton?
The rear differential ratio on a Mitsubishi Triton varies by model year, drivetrain and market. In practice, you’ll commonly see ratios around 3.9:1 for many 4x2 configurations and about 4.625:1 for typical 4x4 variants, with some market-specific exceptions.
Understanding this figure matters because the rear gear ratio affects acceleration, towing capability, and fuel economy. The Triton (known as the L200 in several markets) has multiple axle options across generations, so there is no single universal ratio for all examples.
Typical rear differential ratios you may encounter
These figures reflect commonly observed values across Triton/L200 models, but variations exist by year, market, drivetrain, and trim.
What drives the variation
Differences arise from whether the truck is 4x4 or 4x2, the engine and transmission pairing, and the target use (towing, load carry, or general driving). The ratio is chosen to balance torque delivery with highway efficiency, and dealers may offer different final-drive options in different regions.
- 4x4 models (common configurations): approximately 4.625:1
- 4x2 models (two-wheel-drive variants): approximately 3.9:1
- Some older or market-specific 4x4 variants: around 4.3:1 or 4.9:1
Because these figures vary by year, engine, transmission, and market, always confirm against your specific vehicle's documentation or axle tag.
How to verify your Triton's rear diff ratio
To determine your exact rear diff ratio, try these approaches. They apply whether you own a current model or an older Triton/L200.
- Check the differential housing tag or stamping for a final-drive ratio; this is the official figure for your unit.
- Consult the owner's manual or service manual for your vehicle’s axle specification; dealership parts data often lists the final-drive ratio by trim and market.
- Use the vehicle's VIN to query Mitsubishi's databases or a dealer's portal; many records reveal the axle ratio tied to your VIN.
- If you have access to the ring gear and pinion, count teeth: ratio = ring teeth ÷ pinion teeth. This should be performed by a qualified technician.
When in doubt, contact a Mitsubishi dealer or a trusted workshop with your VIN and market information to confirm the exact ratio for your Triton.
Impact on performance and maintenance
The rear diff ratio influences engine speed at highway speeds, towing capacity, and fuel economy. A taller ratio (larger numerical value, such as 4.625:1) provides more low-end torque for towing but can reduce highway efficiency. A shorter ratio (smaller numerical value, such as 3.9:1) improves acceleration and top-end performance but may limit low-speed torque for heavy loads. Regular differential maintenance remains important regardless of the ratio.
Summary
There is no single rear diff ratio that applies to every Triton. Typical values center around 4.625:1 for common 4x4 variants and about 3.9:1 for many 4x2 configurations, with market- and year-specific deviations. For accurate, vehicle-specific information, check the axle tag, consult the owner's or service manual, or contact a Mitsubishi dealer with your VIN.
What is the advantage of a 4.10 rear end ratio?
Is 4.10 A Good Gear Ratio? 4.10s are a great gear ratio for sports cars who want more acceleration and higher torque. The only downsides with 4.10 gears is that you will get decreased fuel mileage and a lower top speed.
Is a 3.73 axle ratio good?
A 3.73 gear ratio is considered a good all-around option, providing a balance between improved acceleration and towing capability and acceptable highway cruising performance. It offers better off-the-line performance than lower ratios like 3.55, but is less aggressive than 4.10s, resulting in better fuel economy on the highway. This ratio is a popular choice for a variety of vehicles because it's a versatile middle ground for many driving needs.
Pros of a 3.73 gear ratio
- Improved acceleration: A 3.73 gear ratio provides better acceleration from a standstill compared to lower ratios, as the engine doesn't have to work as hard to turn the wheels.
- Good for towing: It offers more torque for towing, making it a better choice than lower gear ratios for pulling heavier loads.
- Balanced for highway driving: Unlike more aggressive ratios like 4.10, a 3.73 is still suitable for comfortable highway driving, with lower RPMs at speed.
- Versatile: This ratio is a good all-around choice for a vehicle that is used for a mix of city and highway driving, towing, and performance.
Cons of a 3.73 gear ratio
- Not as fast as 4.10s: A 3.73 will not have the same quick off-the-line acceleration as a more aggressive 4.10 ratio.
- Worse fuel economy than lower ratios: It will have slightly lower fuel economy than a less aggressive ratio, such as a 3.55, especially on the highway.
- May not be aggressive enough for specific uses: For vehicles used primarily for drag racing or extreme off-roading with large tires, more aggressive gears like 4.10 or higher may be preferable.
Who is a 3.73 gear ratio good for?
- Daily drivers: Anyone who wants a noticeable improvement in acceleration and towing without sacrificing too much fuel economy on the highway can benefit from 3.73 gears.
- Towing and hauling: Owners who tow trailers or haul heavy loads will find the increased torque of a 3.73 ratio very helpful.
- Performance enthusiasts: It's a popular choice for those looking for a performance upgrade in a car or truck, offering a blend of acceleration and highway performance.
Which is better, 3.73 or 4.10 axle ratio?
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.
What is the common problem with Mitsubishi Triton?
Knowing what to look for can help you avoid a costly repair and keep your Triton running smoothly. Common issues with the Mitsubishi Triton include vibration, difficulty starting, and engine performance issues. By understanding what can cause these issues, you can be better prepared to fix them if they arise.
