Hey all,

I have decided to go ahead and change from 3.55 to 4.56's. The problem is I don't know jack crap about manufacturers or installation. So here are my questions...

1) How much should I expect for installation on a 2 wheel drive (1 axle)?

2) Who makes the best kits, and how much do they cost? Do I just need to order the "ring and pinion" kit, or are there other things?

3) Can I still install new gears if I have a shift improvement kit in my truck without hurting it?

Thanks everyone!
Chris

 

#1 - Install on just a rear axle should run would about $500-700 including labor and parts depending on what brand gears you select

#2 - I would go with Precision Gear. Their gears are heated treated better than most others. They are more expensive but you get what you pay for

#3 - You should not have any problems even though you have a shift kit. You may want to look into a programmer such as Hypertech so you can correct the speedo after the gear swap

 

y2kboti,

Thanks for your help. Even being the Ford purist that I am, you have on sweet looking ride there...I don't know, there is just something about black lifted trucks that you can't go wrong with...just thought I'd drop a compliment to a (shhhhhh don't tell anyone) chevy for a change....

Chris

 

Thanks FordMX!

 

I believe 98's have a speed sensor gear in the trans so you can change that and not have to electronically reprogram.
The gears should cost 175
install kit w/ new bearings 80
labor different everywhere

I have 4.56 with 32's, going to be 33's
where are you in CA.

 

y2kboti- no problem!

v6runner- Thanks for your help, I'm in Paso Robles, CA....central coast if you don't know where that is....

Thanks,

Chris