What does axle ratio do

The higher the ratio, the higher the performance. The lower the ratio, the higher the fuel economy. Do you have additional questions? Read More. The Ford F features more standard features, a more impressive touchscreen interface, wireless smartphone connectivity, and much more—but what can you expect from the Ford F specs?

For the new model year, the F sees only minor changes to its engine lineup and output. Look for this link on your favorites: Save. Search Anything Typically on light-duty and heavy-duty full-size trucks, an upgraded axle ratio will be available as a stand-alone option or as a part of an optional towing package. Such packages add upgraded axle ratios along with other equipment to make towing easier.

Features such as four-pin and seven-pin hitch connectors, upgraded cooling via larger radiators, and even heavy-duty springs can all help with the task of towing a larger trailer. With so many available engines and axle ratios for pickup trucks today, we recommend downloading vehicle towing guides also known as towing charts from manufacturer websites. These will help you determine which engine and axle ratio is right for your needs by matching engines and axle ratios to towing capacities.

Differences between manufacturers in tire size, engine capability, and the number of transmission speeds can all change towing capability. Just because two trucks have the same axle ratio does not mean they will have the same capabilities. This story was provided to The Associated Press by the automotive website Edmunds. Another way to calculate the axle ratio is to count the number of teeth on the ring gear and divide that by the number of teeth on the pinion gear. The resulting number is the ratio.

The ring gear is the large circular gear inside the differential case, and the pinion gear is the smaller gear that connects to the driveshaft. This method should be a last resort, as it will require removal of the differential cover and replacement of the gear oil inside the differential.

Picking the right axle ratio for your truck is essential because different axle ratios have different trade-offs in terms of fuel efficiency, towing, and high or low-speed drivability.

A numerically higher ratio — say, 3. By contrast, a numerically lower ratio has better fuel economy, but worse torque and towing power. Which axle ratio is best for you comes down to how you want to use your truck. Do you enjoy off-roading?

Do you need to tow heavy loads? Do you plan to take long road trips? If you want to off-road regularly, you may need a numerically higher axle ratio to get more torque. Some automakers let you upgrade your axle ratio for this reason, giving you better initial acceleration as well. Keep in mind, however, that your top speed and fuel economy may suffer if you upgrade, making it costlier to pull trailers or carry heavy-duty cargo in the rear end of the vehicle. For most truck drivers, the standard axle ratio should be acceptable, especially if you need to drive at highway speeds often.

By letting the driveshaft turn the axle faster, a numerically lower axle ratio saves on fuel, because the engine doesn't have to work as hard to make the wheels turn. Axle ratios vary widely from truck to truck. This is a good ratio for the occasional towing or hauling individual. For a person who tows more often, and heavier loads, the or may be more appropriate.

Much has changed over the past 5 years or so with axle ratios. Today, we are seeing half-ton trucks with 6 cylinder or small V8 engines able to tow close to 12, pounds. Not too long ago, you would need to go to a - ton truck with a large V8, V10, or diesel engine. Much has been learned about the effects of rear end ratios in the last decade. If you move up to a diesel engine, understand that the power and torque ratings of the engine have a huge effect on the rear end needed.

For instance, a Ford F Regular or Super Cab diesel with a SRW single rear wheel rear axle ratio will conventionally tow 15, pounds, but you can go up to 21, pounds with the same truck that has a or DRW dual rear wheel rear end. Do Your Research It is important that you do your own research before truck shopping. Unfortunately, not nearly enough salespeople at dealerships understand rear axle ratios and how they can affect a vehicle's performance.