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What is the rear end ratio of a Ford F350?

The rear end ratio, also known as the differential ratio, is an important specification for the Ford F350 pickup truck. This ratio determines the relationship between the rotational speed of the driveshaft and the rotational speed of the rear wheels, which has a significant impact on the truck's performance and fuel efficiency.


What is the Rear End Ratio?


The rear end ratio, or final drive ratio, is the number of times the driveshaft rotates for every single rotation of the rear wheels. This ratio is typically expressed as a numerical value, such as 3.73:1 or 4.10:1. The higher the rear end ratio, the more torque is delivered to the rear wheels, which can be beneficial for towing, hauling, or off-road driving. However, a higher ratio also results in lower fuel efficiency at highway speeds.


Rear End Ratio Options for the Ford F350


The Ford F350 is available with several different rear end ratio options, depending on the specific model and configuration. Some of the common rear end ratios for the F350 include:



  • 3.31:1

  • 3.55:1

  • 3.73:1

  • 4.10:1

  • 4.30:1


The choice of rear end ratio will depend on the intended use of the vehicle, such as towing, hauling, or highway driving. A lower ratio, like 3.31:1, is better suited for highway driving and improved fuel efficiency, while a higher ratio, like 4.30:1, is more suitable for heavy-duty towing and off-road applications.p>

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rear End Ratio


When selecting the appropriate rear end ratio for a Ford F350, there are several factors to consider:



  • Towing and Hauling Capacity: A higher rear end ratio, such as 4.10:1 or 4.30:1, will provide more torque to the rear wheels, which can be beneficial for towing heavy loads or hauling heavy cargo.

  • Fuel Efficiency: A lower rear end ratio, such as 3.31:1 or 3.55:1, will result in better fuel efficiency at highway speeds, as the engine will be operating at a lower rpm.

  • Driving Conditions: If the vehicle will be used primarily for off-road or heavy-duty applications, a higher rear end ratio may be more suitable. For highway driving, a lower ratio may be more appropriate.


Ultimately, the choice of rear end ratio for a Ford F350 will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the vehicle owner. It's important to carefully consider the intended use of the truck and select the appropriate ratio to optimize performance, fuel efficiency, and towing/hauling capabilities.

Is 3.73 axle ratio good 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 best gear ratio for pulling heavy loads?


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.



How do I find out what gear ratio my Ford rear end has?


To determine the axle ratio of your vehicle, locate the two-digit axle code first, then use your vehicle's towing guide to find the axle ratio that corresponds to that code.



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.



What gear ratio is a Ford F350?


The gear ratios for the Ford Super Duty trucks are 3.31, 3.55, 3.73, 4.10, 4.30. I am not absoutely sure of the 4.10/4.11, but is has been a good and common ratio for ever. The smaller the number, the better the mileage with these diesels. The bigger the number, the more that the truck will pull.



What is the 3.73 axle ratio?


If a truck has an axle ratio of 3:73:1, for example, the driveshaft turns 3.73 times for each full wheel spin. In terms of how an axle ratio should be structured, 3.73 and 3:73:1 are technically both correct and mean the same thing.



How do I find my Ford axle ratio?


To determine the axle ratio of your vehicle, locate the two-digit axle code first, then use your vehicle's towing guide to find the axle ratio that corresponds to that code. If your vehicle has a limited-slip differential, it will be noted as Limited Slip.



Is a 3.55 axle ratio good for towing?


The minimum you want towing in my opinion, is 3.55. Can you tow with a 3.31? Yes you can. It will have a harder time with repeated inclines though. 3.55 works well, while also giving you better fuel mileage. 3.73 will give you a few mpg less, but it probably all you'd need for a travel trailer.



What is a 3.73 gear ratio good for?


3.73 is the most aggressive. You can get what that means when I say aggressive. It gives you the most acceleration. It helps you gear that that torque and that that power down lower than the 355.



What is the axle ratio for the 6.7 PowerStroke?


Consider a PowerStroke 6.7-liter diesel that offers a choice of a 3.31, 3.55, 3.73 or 4.30 axle ratio. The 3.31 might be capable of towing the trailer. But if you are towing the majority of the time, you probably want the 3.55 because it will tow better and provide better fuel economy loaded.


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.