want to go with 4:10's but its hard to find an axle with them...also i think i could tackle the axle swap, but the gear swap is a no go as i do not have the knowledge or know how for that...anyone with the knowledge please fill me in as to which is easier/better...thanks

 

A whole axle swap would certainly be easier. That being said, since Dodge did/does not offer a 4.10:1 axle ratio, it's going to be a real challange finding one.
If you do swap to 4.10 gears, you'll be happy you did. I've had mine for 2 years and except for a minor whine I am completely happy with them. When I swapped my gears, I also installed a LSD. Another good choice.

 

You can find various write-ups & videos on-line that explain the re-gearing process - you might want to check some of them out to see if you feel comfortable in doing it.

The axle doesn't have to be a "dodge axle" as long as the width is acceptable. I haven't seen much in the Dakota size.

 

great info...would 3.92's be any improvement to my 3.55's? and what about just throwing an LSD and not messing with the gears...like i said before i just dont have the knowledge to do it myself which is holding me back unfortunately

 

It would be easier to offer comments if you explained why you think you want a greater gear ratio, is it for pulling, because of larger wheels, or to burn off rubber easier? If you want the added torque, you'll give up higher speed and fuel economy (not that the Dakota is very economical to begin with), but if you need it, the 3.92 will give you a fairly good boost.

As far as the limited slip diff is concerned, there are mixed feelings about the dodge LSD, and it really doesn't help in the same way as gearing if you need torque. If the LSD works properly, it can help in some added traction in conditions where 1 wheel might spin, but it won't help you pull more or better.

 

mostly speed...i love pullin up next to a civic with a cherrybomb who thinks hes fast revin his motor and burnin em off the line...but i tow a boat, and a trailer for work once in a while also so improvements in the towing are always appreciated...plus i hear ill get better mpg around town, shell just fall way behind on the e-way due to higher rpm's...atleast thats what i hear so far from a little research

 

In that case, if I was doing it for myself, I'd get a 3.92 axle (with or without LSD) and swap it for the one you have. This will give very noticeable effects in additional torque and you'll also be able to see if the mpg claims are valid (in my opinion, if you do a lot of "burn outs", you'll lose on the mpg & tire cost side). This will be the cheapest approach and will be the most compatible mechanically & electrically and you'll have your old axle should you decide to return to the original configuration. If you do like the 3.92 and want more, you can price out re-gearing - include the gears, re-gearing labor, and speed sensor mods to get the full financial effect (it'll cut a really big hole in your wallet).

 

I have also been contemplating doing something similar to this aswell but the price has kept me from looking too far into it. How much would getting the new axle be about. Also if I went this rout I would need axles front and rear since I have a 4x4 right?

 

yes, you would need to replace the front gears with the same ratio. Thats why it's so expensive for us 4x4 guys.....twice as much....

 

As jkeaton said. The cheapest approach would be to get the axles from a wrecked doner -check out your local salvage yards or this link to see if there are any salvage yards in your area that subscribe to this service. This link will also show you what you can expect to pay for these parts.