What is the rear end ratio of a Ford F350?
The rear end ratio of a vehicle is a crucial aspect that affects its performance, fuel efficiency, and towing capacity. For truck enthusiasts and owners of the Ford F350, knowing the rear end ratio can help in making informed decisions regarding towing, hauling, and overall vehicle performance. In this article, we will explore what the rear end ratio is, how it impacts your Ford F350, and the common ratios available for this popular truck model.
What is Rear End Ratio?
The rear end ratio, also known as the axle ratio, is the ratio of the number of revolutions the driveshaft makes to the number of revolutions the rear wheels make. This ratio plays a significant role in determining how much torque is delivered to the wheels and affects the vehicle's acceleration and fuel economy.
Common Rear End Ratios for Ford F350
The Ford F350 is available with several rear end ratios, depending on the engine and configuration. Here are some of the most common rear end ratios you might find:
- 3.31:1 - This ratio is often found in models designed for better fuel efficiency.
- 3.55:1 - A balanced option that provides a good mix of towing capacity and fuel economy.
- 3.73:1 - This ratio is popular among those who need to tow heavy loads.
- 4.10:1 - Ideal for maximum towing capacity, this ratio is often used in heavy-duty applications.
- 4.30:1 - This is typically found in models designed for extreme towing and hauling capabilities.
Choosing the right rear end ratio depends on your specific needs, such as whether you prioritize towing capacity or fuel efficiency.
How Rear End Ratio Affects Performance
The rear end ratio significantly impacts various aspects of your Ford F350's performance:
- Towing Capacity: A higher rear end ratio (like 4.10 or 4.30) allows for greater torque, making it easier to tow heavy trailers.
- Acceleration: Vehicles with lower ratios (like 3.31) tend to accelerate more smoothly and efficiently, which can be beneficial for everyday driving.
- Fuel Economy: Lower ratios generally provide better fuel economy at highway speeds, while higher ratios may lead to increased fuel consumption.
Understanding how these factors interplay can help you make the best choice for your driving needs.
Conclusion
In summary, the rear end ratio of a Ford F350 is a vital specification that influences its performance, especially in terms of towing and fuel efficiency. By knowing the common ratios available and how they affect your vehicle, you can make informed decisions that enhance your driving experience. Whether you prioritize towing heavy loads or achieving better fuel economy, selecting the right rear end ratio is essential for optimizing your Ford F350's capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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 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.
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.
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.
