Axle Ratio Question
 

So, my 67 K20 has a rear axle ratio of 4.57 (Eaton HO52) and the front original dana 44 closed knuckle is a 4.55. Is it normal to have different ratios front to rear even though they are this close? I swapped out the old dana 44 with a later model (1973 with open knuckles) but it came with 4.10 gears in it. I was originally thinking that since this was the front axle and not used all the time anyway that I could get away with just swapping the entire carrier out of the old axle along with the pinion shaft. I know that you shouldn't re-use gears, but does it matter with the front axle since it is not driven all the time? If I can't do that, then I can swap in new gears but I believe that it would be 4.56's at that point as I don't even know if I can find 4.55's anymore or not (haven't really looked all that hard). Or does it even matter????


Thanks, Clay

Re: Axle Ratio Question
 

Yeah they are close enough not make a difference. You can use the 4.10 front axle, but wouldn't use the 4wd, ever, in less in an extreme emergency. I'd swap the rear axle for a later model, or you could use the 4.56s out of the front of your current axle, they should swap over....

Re: Axle Ratio Question
 

All the early front Dana 44 stuff will swap around. So yes you can swap the gears if you want. Putting used gears in the front is not a big deal. Before removing them clean them as best as you can and get a pattern and backlash reading. Match it as close as you can in the different housing and you'll be ok

Re: Axle Ratio Question
 

Ok, thanks for the information! I still may just spring for some new gears as they don't seem to be that expensive, but it sounds like I will be ok either way.


Clay

Re: Axle Ratio Question
 

FYI the carrier break on a Dana 44 is 3.73&down and 3.92&up so being you already have 4.10s you won't have to worry about changing it.

Re: Axle Ratio Question
 

Thanks Chuck! After sleeping on it, I think that I am going to just bite the bullet and order a new ring and pinion. I will also just get a master install kit as well and change out everything.


Clay