savolk77

Slowly talking myself out of the gear change. Not for sure yet, more discussion to be had. I like to research the death out of things. Thanks to all, I really appreciate the guidance.

rmp213

If you had 3.55 gears, I would say sure jump to 4.10's for towing, but you're going to have about $1800 into everything you'd need to swap from 3.73's to 4.10's and you'll hardly notice a difference. As for all the other parts, I like what you're thinking about making the truck like new, but you're going to sink a lot of money into the truck replacing parts that aren't bad yet. If it were me, I'd keep the money in my pocket and only replace the parts as they go out on you. If you were going to jump to 35's vs. your 33's AND still tow with it, then yes, jump to 4.11 or 4.56 gears to make your truck tow like it did from the factory with the bigger tires. Another thing to look at is how often do you tow? If it's all the time, sure..then the gear change is worth it. If it's 1 or 2 times a month maybe just save yourself the money.

FANGS99

You can start with a programmer and a CAI first..... See if the power increase from that is enough for you first. If not then then maybe 4.10's will get you the tq you want. The stock tires are 275/65/18 (32 inch tall) with 3.73's, to keep stock gearing you gear down .1 for every inch taller tire you go up. So for you to run 33's with 4.10's would be equal to you running 30 inch tire on stock gears.

savolk77

Yes, at this point since I plan to stick with 33" tires, I am going to leave the gearing alone. I do plan to open up the differential, make sure everything (bearings, clips, pinion, ring, etc.) look good. I just had a bearing seal done last year, but there seems to be a leak. I will just open it up, check it all out, get a new differential cover, and seal it all up properly, and put new fluid in. I'll spend the money on a new set of Toyo's, as I will be needing that as well.

I already have a Spectre cold air intake on it. Just cleaned the filter the other day. With straight pipe exhaust, sans the muffler, it sounds pretty damn good.

I have moved on to researching programmers, specifically the Edge models. I am also looking for a Michigan 5.4 mechanic I would actually trust to rebuild the motor, and considering doing it myself. I store the truck all winter, so I don't need to drive it. I could get the help I need as I go, and when I'm done I will know exactly what was done, and that it was done properly.

Thanks again, and keep the suggestions coming. When I get started on it I will do a build thread. I would love to start this winter, but with the ****ty economy, I may need to hold off one more year.