I am trying to change my 2.79 gear ratio to a 3.73. Give me all the info you can! What all do I need or is this just a simple swap of the ring and the pinion? Thanks in advance guys!
Changing the ring and pinion is not a simple job, and you'll need some tools most people don't have. If you're only going to change gears once have it done by a pro. I added a link for a 9", but set up for an 8" is the same. http://diyford.com/ford-9-inch-differential-guide-third-member-assembly/
Well I just started working at a shop. The guy only works on cars 72 and older but I want to learn things for myself. But you would recommend me just letting someone with experience do it?
If you don't plan doing another set later get a pro to do it. I've done a few myself now, its a good skill to have. You can make some money on the side setting gears for people, especially if you learn dana axles. Always jeep guys looking to regear.
So if I get a pro to I should watch him and learn then? And that is a smart Idea to make a little bit more money!
thats a pretty detailed write up but misses some key set up info, like the specs for pinion bearing preload, carrier bearing preload, and how to read and adjust the pattern. also 3.73s are not avaiable for a 8". 3.80s are the closest and will work just fine.
The gears are relatively cheap. Summit Racing sells their brand for $160. The posi unit is what will set you back. Starts out in the low $300 range and goes up from there, depending on the type of posi unit you buy. You will need the installation kit and have to pay someone to set it up.
Unless you plan to just cruise around town and not get on the highway much. 3.80 is a good ratio for these cars. (Have em in my Sprint) But...Unless you have an overdrive trans ( I do) dont plan on any long hauls on the highway, unless you like listening to your engine turn LOTS of rpm at highway speeds, and the engine doesn't mind it. Gonna need a good cooling system too. 3.55 is a better all around gear ratio for a car that gets driven alot and sees a fair amount of highway time...Not trying to burst your bubble here. Just letting you know what to expect... Good luck and have fun!!!
No that's the exact info I am looking for. I am 17 and looking for all of the info I can get. Yea this is my daily driver, and she sees the highway a little but not to much but this might change. So you would recommend the 3.55? And ill probaly have a standard c4 or c6 trans!