So I'm kind of confused & if my build sheet is correct then I am also disappointed...
So first question... if we are 4×4, our front gear ratio will be the same as our rear gear ratio, yes?
Next I searched the threads and found some people saying that 12 bolts on your rear diff means you have 3.92 gears?
However I ran my VIN for the build sheet and I have the heavy duty tow package but it says 3.55 gear ratio with 9.25 rear axle & mine has 12bolts. So I'm guessing the 12bolt comment is false?
If so then this whole time I thought I had the 3.92 gears 😪
I have no visible stickers on the diffs that tell ratios, or the sticker in the glove box, or under the hood like some say in the threads. Which is why I'm hoping someone has some helpful info... Thanks

 

I've never looked for a sticker or bolt count; I just stuck with the build sheet. Seems that would be the most definitive.

Not sure what trim you have, but for my Dakota's model year the 3.92 came with the anti-spin differential and was standard on the upper trim levels with a V8. It wasn't part of the towing package (go figure). I've attached the 2005 and 2006 brochures as a reference. It looks like 3G Dakota's early years made the 3.92 an option for all trim levels and wasn't standard on any.

 

Right on bro, thanks for that. I figured the build sheet was the only way to go since my diff has no visible markings to determine what I have. Trying to figure out for sure what gear ratio I have because I need to replace the entire front diff carrier assembly & need to be sure which one to order on Ebay.

 

12 bolt rear diff can be 3.55 or 3.92 gears when it was built.

I think all 4.7 Dakotas have the 12 bolt rear diff, while the 3.7 was paired with a 10 bolt rear diff, IIRC.

 

my 2005 has the corporate rear with the 3.55 and standard tow package

 

Awesome thank you sir. Yes I am 4.7, I was hoping I had the 3.92 because I wanted to go with 285 75 16 tires but wasn't sure if it'll make for a sluggish ride. Also I use my truck for light off-roading and trail riding. I know our Riggs weren't initially built for that, more of a work truck I know, but I like to push the limits and I like having something different from what you normally see out on the trails(jeep, tacos, chevys)
I figured the 3.92 would also help a lot more in the off-road aspect but I guess the 3.55 will have to do...

 

I'm sure you could swap the diffs. Seems like someone on here swapped in 4.25s.

Correction: a fair amount of discussion of swapping in 4.10 and 4.56s...a few threads to get you started.

https://dodgeforum.com/forum/3rd-gen...0-gears-2.html

https://dodgeforum.com/forum/3rd-gen...th-pics-3.html

https://dodgeforum.com/forum/3rd-gen...xle-ratio.html

That's just a few...lots more if you use the search function.

 

wow tell yeah thanks! Love this forum.