1/2 ton axle info?

[Kaysenmc]

Hey, I'll start by telling what I have and go from there. My rig is an 86 K5 with the stock axles, and I am thinking of doing a gear swap and installing a locker in the rear. What gear ratio would you suggest for my rig, currently I am running a weak 305, 700r4, with 35's. But I plan on going to a 36 when mine wear out. I do most of my driving around town/ highway, but it does go to the river pretty often (4-5 times a month). So which gear ratio would be good for all? With the stock 3.42's it very seldom goes into overdrive on the highway (almost always just run in third, and makes the lil 5.0l scream in second to pass), and is absolutely gutless in the mud/sand. I have also been thinking of doing a 3/4 ton swap, suggestions? Please help, because I kinda hate to pull a perfectly fine engine and still only spin one in the dirt. Thanks in advance, Kaysen

[earl87gta]

you could do a 3/4 ton swap cheaper then a gear change the gear change if you have to pay some one to do it could be any were from 200 an axle to 1000. you can get a set or 3/4 ton axles for 200 to 500 and they would most likly have 4:10 gears in them . Thats the way I would go first. not only are you getting a gear that will work with the 36 in tires but your getting a stronger rear axle and better front brakes.

[Zoomad75]

4.10's minimum and up to 4.56's would be the best bet with the tire size you have. Plus that issue of the 700r4 not shifting into OD is common with big tires and weak gearing. Thats a good way to cook a 700r4.

That being said, I agree with Earl. Go with the floaters and rotors move (dirtylarry's term for 14b swap and matching 8 lug rotors up front). You run better chances finding a 14b with 4.10s than 3.42's so if you look right you'll find one with the gearing you want in it. That way you only have to change out the gearset up front.

4.56's were a factory option, but they are hard to come by. 4.10's/3.73's are most common.