Those are alternate rear end gear ratios (like 3.73, 3.55, etc.). These are "taller" gears which mean they rev quicker. Taller gears are typically better for pulling/acceleration.

 

For an every day driver and a vehicle you drive a lot on the highway, I wouldn't go any steeper than 3.73's. 3.55's are actually better for the highway, but for a good all around gear, the 3.73's fit the bill.

 

I think that the 3.55 is plenty for what you are pulling. It's not even 1000 lbs, right? The 3.73's help you alot after you reach 3000 lbs or more, and even then a once or twice a year pull of that weight will not hurt at all. If you are going to pull only that ATV, then the 3.55's will do it without even breaking a sweat. The 3.55's will also help (as mentioned) with fuel mileage, lower engine revs per wheel revs. Limited slip vs. open diff. can be a pros and cons game. If you live in a snow-free climate, then a limited slip would give you more traction when you need it. I had a 2WD limited slip a few years ago on snow-covered roads making it hard to control when I broke traction. The fish-tailing made for a very focused driver, so an open diff. (from talking to others) would have kept the rear in track only allowing one wheel to spin. In the end, learning how to drive in winter conditions goes a long way.

 

Yep, I agree with all of that. It's hardly worth changing out the 3.55's he already has.

 

Does it help that I also have Traction assistant or control on the truck

 

what kinda shop do you go to get gears installed ? does ford install gears?

 

where is the best place on the truck to tell which gear you have

 

Do you still have the sticker that came on the window. If not you may have to do a VIN check.

 

No i do not have that paper i guess i can just go to dealer and they can print out some info

 

It's on your door sticker. .

 

The offroad shop that did my lift can install 4.10's in my truck for $900 total. Is that a pretty good price?

 

. . kind of high and why would you go with 4.10s? 4.56s would be the better choice IMO. I'd expect it to be around $700-800, since I paid $1600 for 4.88s front and rear with a Mag-Hytech cover which I highly recommend.

 

Thanks, was kinda thinking the $900 was a little on the high side. Probably will hold off on the gears for awhile though as my truck is getting shipped off to Hawaii in 3 weeks.

 

Honestly, I'd go ahead and do them NOW. Hawaii prices are probally going to be outrageous. .

 

Nothing for what you are towing. I have the 3.55 LS and the 5.4 with the tow package. It does just fine for light towing. Really, you probably would not notice the difference in towing and you get a slightly better fuel economy with the 3.55. Now if you are doing heavy towing, frequently, the 4.10s would be make a lot of difference.