Hello -

I'm looking into a '18 3.5 EB 4x4 ... and want to see if my logic is correct ...
Since 3.73 gears are a 5% increase over 3.55's, will increasing the stock 265/70R17 tires (~100" circumference) with the 3.73's, to ~105" circumference (a 5% increase (33" tire)), in essence, have similar characteristics (MPG's, acceleration, towing performance) as the 3.55's with the stock tires?

I'm looking build an adventure travel type truck... I want to maintain mileage to travel out to the desert and such, and have a 4x4 to feel confident when there.
No major towing at this point, but would like to have the option, and I know trucks that are capable have better resale ...

I know I am probably overthinking this, but a lot of time and knowledge has been put into designing all aspects of these trucks, to be optimized with all its original parts! ...and we all know, once you start changing things, other systems are affected!

Thanks in advance!

 

Yep, that is accurate as far as gearing. But larger tires are heavier and less aerodynamic so the fuel economy will be affected slightly. They also raise the truck a little and that also makes it less aerodynamic. Larger diameter tires decrease slightly the mechancial advantage of the brakes. And heavier tires will decrease maximum acceleration due to the fact that the hp required to accelerate a rotational mass goes up exponentially compared to the the mass of the rest of the truck.

 

Calculator:

http://4lo.com/calc/gearratio.php

Anyway, with the 3.5 EB and 10 speed trans, axle ratio is almost immaterial. It has a really good low gear and low end torque. Note that when you get the max tow package which is rated for 13000# it comes with 3.55's. I would not order 3.73's. Also remember you have a low range in your transfer case for doing some serious crawling.

 

Roadie and glc -
Thank you for your thoughts and insight!
Peace.