different front gears, best temp. solution?

[shelby987]

I am changing my gears in my truck from 4.56's to 4.10's, but it's going to have to happen in stages. I am putting a new front axle in my truck with 4.10's while the rear gears will stay 4.56's for the time being. What is the best temp. solution....if I am not going to use the 4wd, does it matter, can I leave the front axle in? Does it not even matter as long as my front hubs aren't locked....or is the transfer case being in 2wd the only thing that matters?

[JAKES 68GMC]

I think as long as you don't use 4wd with the mixed ratios, your all set. I remember my dad telling a story about a 85 Ford 4x4 diesel pick-up he had that had 4 different size tires on it. He said it was a wild ride through the woods if you were in 4wd.

[rwgregory]

Why don't you just remove the front drive line to be safe. It won't hurt
anything and that way if you hit a large bump or pot hole and your transfer
case accidentally jumps into gear there are no worries. Also, keep your hubs
unlocked. No need to spin the gears in the front end and sacrifice gas mileage

[JAKES 68GMC]

Good point.

[1969K10]

if you're in the dirt, you're front end will pull you, and the rear will just ride/drag along.

Do NOT engage the front end on hard paved road!!! unlock the hubs, keep it in 2WD, or pull the front drive shaft if you are worried about it "slipping" into 4WD...

[Americanrider]

I have been running 4.56 rear & 4.10 front since Jan, no problems. Just stay in 2wd and you will not harm anything. I'm halfway there just like you.