what is the big difference between rearend gears im mean ive heard of 2.55 all the way up to 4.56 and i kno that means the tire spins once for that many times the driveshift spins but wuts the big difference

 

Ever ride a bicycle with more than one gear?

Different gears allow the engine to operate at different speeds to take advantage of characteristics of horsepower, economy, torque curve. Some gears are better for mileage, some better for performance.

 

no i mostly stick to bmx but what whould be the best gear fr puttin power to the ground thru the whole rpm range

 

It depends. Tire size, vehicle weight and type, engine powerband, intended use. Tough question without knowing all the parameters.

 

well the 97 ram 1500 2x4 reg cab reg bed 5.9 360 has a 3.55-1 ratio sp is that better for fuel economy of puttin power to the ground or wut

 

My RAM 2500 3.9L V6 automatic has 3.50 gears in the rear, with that ratio, I can actually tow something with a little V6
and it moves out quite smartly. Given the lack of torque this motor makes, a higher number = good.

If the 4500lb van had Magnum R/T gears in the rear (2.82 I think) it wouldn't get out of it's own way, never mind tow anything.

If the Magum R/T had the van gears in it (3.50) it would accelerate like absolute gangbusters, and probably STILL make it to 130.


Mike

 

That's probably a little more economy than performance, but a good compromise gear. A 4.10 gear would allow the truck to rev. quicker and accelerate harder, but would hurt the mileage a little.

 

the way mike makes it sound is that the higger tha ration the lower the top end speed is that true

yea it seems a bit econmy mopartodd ~20 miles a gallon hwy

but it does go pretty good

 

The numerically higher ratio will limit the top end speed, but you will get there quicker with all other variables being equal. It's limiting because you get to redline at a lower speed.