Reduction gear selection

[Oka374]

I'd reckon the 43% would be enough for most normal use, 85% would really only be required for rockhopping etc in most cases.

[Bigrig]

I'd reckon the 43% would be enough for most normal use, 85% would really only be required for rockhopping etc in most cases.

85% for autos either way - overcomes the lack of engine compression for steep descents.

[Bigrig]

85% for autos either way - overcomes the lack of engine compression for steep descents.

Further to this - what are you driving? Manual or auto? I figure either way, why not go the larger reduction for the minimum price differential anyway - we are only talking low range when the gears are active, and even on the beach (if you have a manual) you can still run in 4th or 5th gear with the lower reduction - an auto would struggle here a bit, but only due to speed - I never use low range on the beach, but am there rarely compared to off road (tracks, parks etc), so my opinion is based directly on your use - if you're predominantly beach use then maybe the 43% gears - if not, 85 all the way.

I have 85% in my auto by the way.

[Bad-Trol]

I kept saying that too but ive only had it for 5 months now and doing them already!
I would defiantly get the locker first, makes a HUGE difference and no amount of low range can really help a open front diff! Also, I never really noticed the low range gearing issue till the locker went in, the vastly greater traction the vehicle has once they go in really plays havoc with the low down torque when climbing hills etc. You just think its fine with open diffs and they just spin, you go nowhere while not noticing the lack of low gearing

Hi GUte!

How did u go with the reduction?
I'm doing the same, but don't do a lot o rock climbing, but the odd steep accent and a lot of soft sand driving. Planning a trip across the Simpson Desert next year with a 1 ton off road trailer in tow, thought the gear reduction might help a bit.

Cheers mate!

[TuffTD42]

Was there ever an update on the 43% gears?

Will do growler!

If i had an automatic I would have chosen the 85% reduction as the manuals first gear is lower and autos suffer from running away downhill a lot more than manuals.

Will keep this thread updated

[macca]

Very happy with the 43% glad I didnt get the 85% would not use L1 or possibly L2 with the stuff I do. If you are into rocks and steps well then the 85's are the way to go.

[Rustyboner81]

Cheers guys, yeah thats what I have been thinking lately, wanted 85 at first for ages now thinking 43 will probably be best of both worlds! Mind changes almost hourly sometimes!

I dont know anyone personally with a set fitted so I will just have to go on opinions alone

Looks like 2 wheel drive to me.

[Clunk]

Looks like 2 wheel drive to me.

Another MC misquote by any chance?

[paps01]

Well it's time to start this thread up again. I am in the process of doing this but my application is a little different. I've got a heavy GU camper combination. It quite often drops under turbo influence and stalls in 2nd low climbing and I'm on the brakes even in 1st descending. The idea of backing it down a hill with the current gearing doesn't bare considering. I originally thought something around 2.5:1 would be sufficient but then (like everyone else) am now stuck between 2.86 and 3.74. If I was confident the 50.1:1 1st and similar reverse with the 2.86 gearing would allow both controlled descents and rock stepping on steep ascents without stalling it appears to be the best of both worlds. 2nd gear in the ratio looks handy and 3rd is closer than currently. The guys at Marks have sent me a speed calculator but in reality what is the difference between 3.7 and 5.2 kph when descending a steep hill? And what is the effect on engine braking? l see the original thread came from Macca with a gu ute. Have you got any more experience relevant to mine since the last thread? Much appreciate any input

[macca]

Well it's time to start this thread up again. ........... l see the original thread came from Macca with a gu ute. Have you got any more experience relevant to mine since the last thread? Much appreciate any input

Still feel the same, suits my usage

Very happy with the 43% glad I didnt get the 85% would not use L1 or possibly L2 with the stuff I do. If you are into rocks and steps well then the 85's are the way to go.