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Which is better 3.73 or 4.10 axle ratio?

When it comes to selecting the right axle ratio for your vehicle, the choice between 3.73 and 4.10 can be a tricky one. Both ratios have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the "better" option ultimately depends on your specific driving needs and preferences.


Understanding Axle Ratios


The axle ratio is the relationship between the number of times the driveshaft rotates compared to the number of times the wheels rotate. A higher axle ratio, such as 4.10, means the wheels will rotate fewer times for each rotation of the driveshaft, resulting in more torque and better acceleration. Conversely, a lower axle ratio, like 3.73, will provide better fuel efficiency and higher top-end speed.


Comparing 3.73 and 4.10 Axle Ratios



  • Acceleration and Towing Capacity: The 4.10 axle ratio provides better acceleration and higher towing capacity, making it a better choice for those who need to haul heavy loads or want quicker off-the-line performance.

  • Fuel Efficiency: The 3.73 axle ratio offers slightly better fuel efficiency, as the engine doesn't have to work as hard to maintain highway speeds. This can be beneficial for those who do a lot of highway driving.li>
  • Top Speed: Vehicles with the 3.73 axle ratio will generally have a higher top speed compared to those with the 4.10 ratio, as the engine doesn't have to work as hard to reach higher speeds.

  • Terrain and Driving Conditions: If you frequently drive in hilly or mountainous areas, the 4.10 axle ratio may be the better choice, as it will provide more low-end torque to help you climb steep inclines.


Ultimately, the decision between 3.73 and 4.10 axle ratios comes down to your specific driving needs and preferences. If you prioritize acceleration, towing capacity, and performance in challenging terrain, the 4.10 ratio may be the better option. However, if fuel efficiency and top-end speed are more important to you, the 3.73 ratio could be the way to go.

What is the best gear ratio to go fast?


Gear Ratio's Effects on Acceleration & Mileage
On the other hand, a (numerically) higher gear ratio, such as 4.56:1, will offer faster acceleration but with lower fuel efficiency. If you're looking to improve acceleration, a numerically higher gear ratio is the way to go.



Is a 4.10 axle ratio good for towing?


3.73 is good towing ratio, 4.10 is better and 3.42 is about as high a ratio to use for towing and performance. The higher ratios (lower numerically) are more fuel efficient which is why the 3.08 is now the default ratio in most new truck whereas 10 yrs ago it was the 3.73, gives better fuel ecomony on average.



What axle ratio gets better mileage?


The lower the number, the better fuel economy, and the higher the number the more towing power you have, but fuel economy suffers. For instance, a 3:31 gets better fuel economy than a 3:73. On the other hand, a 3:73 or perhaps a 4:10 will tow much more, while fuel economy greatly drops.



Should I get 3.73 or 4.10 gears?


Depends what your average driving is like. If you're doing mostly highway miles over 65 mph then go with the 3.73s. If you're mostly driving on roads with speed limits 45 - 55 then go with the 4.10s. If this is strictly a performance thing, go with the 4.10s.



What axle ratio is best for acceleration?


Performance: Looking again at the ratios used above, the higher 3.55 ratio indicates faster acceleration whether the truck's empty or loaded. The higher the ratio, the more revolutions per minute. Towing: For pickup trucks released after 2010, the best axle ratio for towing falls somewhere between 3.55 and 3.73.



Is a 3.73 axle 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 towing capacity of 3.73 axle ratio?


A crew cab short bed with NHT and an axle ratio of 3.73 has a towing capacity of 13,000 pounds. A crew cab short bed with an axle ratio of 3.42 has a towing capacity of 9,200 pounds.



What is the top speed of a 4.10 gear ratio?


With a 4.10 gear and 1:1 final drive 4,000rpm puts you at 82MPH. This does assume no slippage, which with an automatic you will get a little from the converter, but you are only talking about a couple MPH. My car with a 4.10 gear, 8" converter and 30" tires would do 143MPH at 7,150rpm and 60MPH was 3,000rpm.



Are 4.10 gears good for daily driving?


If your daily commute includes highway driving at over 65MPH though, you will definitely notice a decrease in fuel economy by a few MPG. They should hold up fine. They are fine for daily driving, as long as your daily commute doesn't include Autobahn runs.



What is a 3.73 gear ratio good for?


For a truck, it is great for heavier loads where factory gear ratios that are 3.55 or 3.31. In a sports car, 3.73 gears will offer better acceleration while retaining top speed when compared to 3.55 gears that come factory on many sports cars.


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.