Gear ratio's

[Isles4evr]

I am currently running stock size tires on my 91 XL. I am looking to upgrade to 32's or 33's; I'm not sure which one yet. I have the stock gears, and was wondering if I have to get a different ratio. If so, will it effect anything if I don't upgrade right away. I have heard two different things from to different people... one says I don't have to worry about it, and the other says I have to do it. Also, if I have to do it what ratio should I go with, and what is a cost range? I appriciate and information!!

Thanks a bunch,
Chris
'91 Explorer 2dr

 

[A91EBexplorer4x4]

from what i hear it costs a pretty penny to replace gears and was told to do some mods in the engine first to compensate for the loss. just an idea . i hvae 3.55 in mine with 31's with no problem with just a few add ons to the engine.

------------------
1991 Eddie Bauer 4x4
K&N drop,in Modified air box. flowmaster 40 cat back. 3" lift 31x10.5's

 

[kvo]

Chris -

That's an expensive proposition you're getting into. In order to put on 32" tires, you'd need to get some clearance via a body lift or suspension lift. A 3" body lift would get you by but won't improve your articulation. Check on the door and owner's manual for the gear ratio. If you have anything larger than 3.73 (numerically lowered) you'd be bogged down. No amount of engine mods could improve that power loss. Even with 3.73 you'd feel the loss of power during acceleration and on hills.

For 33" tires, it's a whole new ball game. You'd definitely need a suspension lift (4" - 5.5"), new gears, at least 4.10, new wheels, and a sleuth of other improvements.

This is not meant to be discouraging but beware of the expenses and do your research. It could cost $5k-$8k easily for the basic set up to run 32" or 33" tires.

 

[Isles4evr]

Alright, I seel what you guys are saying. I can run 32's w/ot changing gears but feel a considerable loss in power. 33's definitly need new gears. Kvo, do you think that I could clear 33's with a body lift? What are some places, or kind of places that could install the new gears?

Thanks a bunch,
Chris
'91 Explorer 2dr

 

[kvo]

Chris -

I believe everyone on this site and correct me if I'm wrong, that runs 33" tires have at least a 4" suspension lift (the late Dr. Jack Lobdell). Others run the 5.5" suspension lift and there are a few that have the 5'5" suspension lift and a small body lift. I just don't see anyway that a body lift could give you the lift necessary to clear the tires. The largest body lift kit available is a 3". All the 4x4 magazines say it's a NO NO to stack blocks to build up a body lift.

Regarding the gears, any off road shop in your area should be able to do it. May be check with a few that builds differential in your area.

------------------
'91 4-DR EB
San Jose, CA
2.5" Rancho, RS 9000, 32" BFG AT KO

 

[Isles4evr]

kvo,
Thanks a bunch for anwsering my questions. I think I am going to call around to a couple of 4wd places around here and get a price range. Again, thanks a bunch for your replys.

Chris
'91 Explorer 2dr