Re: [A/S] increasing gear ratio in tow vehicle

[hhamp5246@xxxxxxx]

I had the same set up in a 96 Suburban.... only the 5.7 was the newer vortec 
engine.
 
 <I've noticed on hills and grades I have a hard time.  On a long, 
 medium grade in PA I had the accelerator to the floor, and could only 
 reach 55 mph.  I asked the dealership about my rear end gear ration--
 it's 3.43.  I think that is too small.  I'm worried about crossing 
 the Rockies with this setup--I don't like to worry!>

Again, mine was also the 3:43 gear ratio.
 
 <My question--can I just buy a new gearset and have my mechanic put it 
 in?  I can buy a 3.73 or a 4.10 rear end gear for about $200 online.  
 If I do this, do I have to change anything else--the differential, 
 for example?  Does one thing lead to another?  I'd like to keep this 
 van as my tow vehicle, but if it's simply the wrong thing and I've 
 made a mistake, then I'm willing to cut my losses and buy something 
 else.>

I cut my losses and bought a diesel puller..... never regretted it when I 
criss crossed the Rockies last summer..  

If you do change out the rear end, don't forget the odometer.

I don't think you'll be happy with the van even if you do change it..... 
you'll get a real gas hog with the 4:10.

Hunter