Last January I did the same swap you are doing, 3.55 to 4.10 and I got a package deal from Randy's for just over $500. This included new front carrier, D44 4.09 gears, and complete install kit, 8.8 4.10 rear gears and complete install kit. The front carrier was only like $60 or something if I remember correctly so its definitely worth it and was included in the package deal. I did the install myself with help from my grandfather. It went pretty well and I haven't had any problems so far. I would definitely suggest Randy's Ring and Pinion because they had the best deals, high quality gears and timken bearings, and great service to help find exactly what you need.

 

I'm jealous. Some wrenchin know-how would've saved me a bundle. Hey BigRed 5.0L - you do any wheelin up at Paragon or Raush Creek?

 

He's still got to pop another $250 or so to put in a Trac-Lok

 

muddytruck,
No I don't even know where thats at!?! Is it up in the coal region? I'm from just north of Harrisburg. It sounds like our trucks are pretty much alike in the power department. What kind of mileage do you get and do you wish you would have went with 4.56 gears??

 

BigRed-

Paragon Adventure Park is in Hazleton

Rausch Creek Off Road Park is in Joliett

Both are off Rte 81, both offer some serious off road fun. I have not been to RC yet, but I have been wheelin at Paragon, and I will never be right again

As for my rig, it gets 10 mpg avg, and runs pretty good for an old beast with 156K miles behind it. 4:56... yes and no. I had just dropped a ton of $$ on 5 mud tires when the rear went. So, I geared it according to the 33" meats it has. I would not run 4:56 with those tires. However, if I had it all to do again, I would have gone to 35" or 36" tires, and 4:56 ratios.

 

Thanks muddytruck for the wheeling info. Now that I see the maps, I know where Rausch Creek is, its only about 40 minutes from my place. I think it used to me a mining operation or something. It looks like fun though. If I get up there I'll let you know how it is.

The reason I was asking about your truck is because I think mine is still underpowered. I have 33's and 4.10 gears but it seems like my 302 just doesn't have the low end torque I need.

 

That's because your 302 DOESN'T have the low end torque you need. The 300 does a better job of low end but runs out of power pretty quickly above 3500. The 351 does both jobs and does it better than either but 351s have a drinking problem.

 

Amen to that, StrangeRanger. The 302 is an egg roll short of the Pu-Pu platter when it comes to torque. I miss my 351. I will not rebuild this 302 when it's time is up. I'll do the swap. I'm probably going to buy a 351 soon and build it up so that it's ready. No matter though. On the trail, it's traction, clearance, and suspension that matter most, not power.

 

Been to RC and it is very nice!

Where are ya in Harrisburg? I'm in Lower Swatera.

Yeah the 302 in my 88 is a little on the "soft" side, but throw the M5OD behind one like in my 92 and whoo boy hold on.

Adrianspeeder

 

I'm from Millersburg, about 45 minutes up the river.