What rear end do I need?

[Robb]

Okay, there are a bunch of threads on rear-end ratios, but I need to sum it up as to exactly what I need. My X 90% of the time is an "around the town" vehicle. A little bit of snow, and a little rough riding (mainly construction sites).

I had my rear-end built about 15K ago and now it's humming again, so I'm going to just replace it.

I found a seller with complete rear axles with these options:
LOCKING: .410 or .373
NON-LOCKING: .355

What is my best choice and why? Is there something else besides these choices I should really look for?

Thanks guys,
Robb

 

[Robb]

ok, forgive the brainfart. 4.10, 3.73, 3.55

 

[TarHeel085]

well ya wanna match up your front ratio with the rear, but go with the locking if you can.

 

[Jason_25]

If your truck is 4x4, match it up to the front, but if not, go with the 4.10's.

 

[Robb]

Okay, so now I'm thinking thrifty. I found new gears and bearing sets on eBay for a fraction of what another rear-end whould cost. Can this be done by a "shade tree" mechanic? It looks like it should be straight forward, except for getting some bearings pressed. Has anyone rebuilt their own rear-end? Any advice?

 

[Dan Whitaker]

No unfortunatly this is not something a shade tree mechnic can do. The ring and pinion have to have the right amount of mesh. To much or to little will shell the gears in no time. Most likley what the shop will due is use some blueing compound on the ring and pinion tto check the mesh of the gears. They will then use a dial indiccator to make sure the ring is true (no wobble left to right).

 

[Crankcase]

Most Explorers I've seen (75% around here)have the 3.73 limited slip in them. The axle you need also depends on fuel consumption, tire size etc...

 

[mosinman]

JASON 25 gave it to you straight.