[greg0380]

maybe my experiences can guide you. I have an 85 2WD, 27.5 inch tall tires. The truck was stock with 2.73s. I got a cheap 3.08 complete rear axle and swapped it in. Not a big difference between the two ratios. I still wasn't happy.

So i took my original 2.73 rear axle and rebuilt it with new bearing and seals and bought a ring and pinion from Richmond gear and went with the 3.42s. I had them installed for $125 at a local machine shop. I am happy with that ratio. I have a 5 speed manual trans. In 4th gear (1:1) I can do 65 and turn around 2200-2300 Rpms (according to my tach). I really don't use 5th till I'm over 60 - 65 mphs.

My suggestion would be to go with the 3.42s, but it really depends on what size tire you are running too. Good luck.