I just picked up some 33x12.5-20 open countrys and have 3.55 gears. Is it neccesary to swap out new gears? I will eventually switch to 35s

 

I agree but you are just swapping a ring and pinion. I did it and have not had any problems yet. I did say I am not sure how mechanically inclined you are as well. It is not that bad though, just takes a few hours to get access to everything, plan on at least one whole day....

 

Welcome to the site jerhelo, I see you made it over from the other forum. Much more activity on this site and the other has recently been being spammed a lot.

 

THanks man, I appreciate the hospitality...

 

I though about this a little more and can see your point. The reason that gear swaps are so expensive is the amount of time it takes to complete the task. By the time you tear everything down and put it back together you have about 4 to 6 hours per axle, or at least that is how long it took me. I had my gears installed originally but I took everything apart and replaced the open diff carrier with a LS carrier, Detroit True Track. Essentially installing gears as I had to remove the ring gear and re-shim to maintain backlash. Honestly if you take your time it really is not that bad. It was very intimidating to me at first but once I got into it and viewed a few websites I got it done...I am an engineer by education but seem to be pretty mechanically inclined as I did the lift myself too...

 

I like your truck, nice set up....I looked at your URL attachment, I will definitely be adding Offroad Unlimited to my places to visit, awesome shop.

How is your Rack&Pinion holding up with the 38's? I am planning on going to 37's but considering 38's or 39's. Currently running my stage 2 cranked up to a total of 8", think adding the body lift I should clear 38's pretty well just have heard the rack in these trucks don't like much larger tires than 35's....

 

I have 4.56's in my 08 FX4, 6" lift on 35's. They are amazing!! I also have a truetrac locker in there and I have never been more happy with my truck! My city mpg went way up and my highway only went down like 1 mpg! I have a friend with the same truck and same gears and his is the same! Its awesome how much power you get back! I have a 31' travel trailer that I tow and it's not bad at all. It takes a lot of stress off of the tranny and running gear. Worth every penny!!! Go with 4.56

 

What are the benefits of a true lock diff over a stock lsd

 

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