does a 4wd with 3.55s actually different gearing than a 2wd with 3.55s because the 4wds come with larger tires which according to the bfg gearing helper would mean the 4x4 really has like a 3.29 rear end OR does ford compensate for that other than the optional 3.73s?

 

No, 3.55's are 3.55's. Your right though that bigger tires make the gearin seem higher. The 97-98 trucks could have 3.73 though.

Adrianspeeder