DRW questions

[vampress_me]

We started the new truck debate at home. Looking harder at a new one since the old one just threw a check engine light this weekend for an EGT sensor that needed replaced. We're wondering if that's the beginning of the DPF system starting to go bad with MN's new biodiesel mandate. Sigh... We had thrown out the idea to each other about getting a new truck, just not real serious until now. And it doesn't help when the dealer is giving a good trade-in on the old one and great price on a new 2016 to order.

So, to upgrade to a DRW is $1200 more, which I have to think about as far as if our usage of the truck is worth it and squeezing thru the garage door at home. But, the other option is getting the 3.73 rear end or going to a 4.30 (SRW is a 3.55 only). Which ratio do people like, both as a daily driver and for towing? We never plan on getting a toy hauler, no toys to haul, and like our camper layout so no plans on upgrading that for 5-6 years when kids are older/ out of the house. If you've gotten the 3.73, have you regretted not getting the 4.30? Ugh. I've always hated choosing this particular part of a vehicle! And, since Festus2 caught my omission, it will be another diesel, no gasser here.

Thanks everyone for your experience!

[Festus2]

As far as the gear ratio is concerned and in view of your driving habits, I'd probably opt for the 3.73. For "normal" towing, it will do just fine but if you do a considerable amount of towing in the mountains, then the 4.3 would perform better.

Another factor to consider is the fuel mileage. If gas, the 3.73 would be the better choice as the 4.30 rear end will be a thirsty beast. Prior to our diesel, I had a GMC 2500 gasser with a 4.10 rear end and it seemed to veer off in the direction of any and all gas stations we approached.

So all in all and for general purpose towing, the 3.73 might be the way to go for you.

[jtyphoid]

2015 F350 dually here, with 6.7L diesel and 3.73. I'm happy with the 3.73 when pulling our 15000lb fiver, even with occasional towing in the mountains.

[Javi]

See my signature...

[larry337]

3.73 is perfect for all but the very heaviest of loads. But, if you're looking at Ford, be aware the 4.30 comes with the heavy tow package. That will also include the wide stance front axle that is standard on a F450. The wide stance axle gives a better turning radius. While you probably don't need a 4.30 the front axle does make it easier to park and maneuver. I know, just makes the decision harder don't it lol.

[cblong]

3.73 will do everything you need. unless you live in colorado or are a hot shot on the side.

[bsmith0404]

While transporting I've towed about every weight trailer that is out there from 5k to 16k lbs (okay I know there are heavier ones than that) across the mountains. I have 3:73 and have never felt a need for anything different. Since you are staying diesel, keep the RPMs down. The peak of the torque curve is right about 1600 rmps, that is roughly 65-67 mph with a 3:73 gear. A 4:30 gear would put your rpms way up and kill fuel mileage.

[C130]

I'd agree with the others the 3.73 would be fine unless you absolutely wanted the other options that come with the 4.30. I drive my F450 back and forth to work, 38 miles each way, and I drive about 65-70 mph otherwise my gas mileage goes way down with the 4.30. Truck maneuvers great but the 3.73 would be nicer for daily driving for sure in my opinion. Really depends on what you're going to use for most of the time. Saying that, I really like my F450 and I will say it's slowed my driving speeds down for sure. The 3.73 with the wide stance front axle would be perfect!

[1jeep]

Keep in mind your also going form the 6.4 with a 5 speed auto to the 6.7 with the 6 speed, big jump in power and gearing.

[vampress_me]

Thanks everyone! After discussions the past few nights, it looks like we are going to go with a SRW again. For our use, it is what will work the best right now. 6 years or so from now, we will be re-evaluating since that's when our camping habits may change (kids graduating/ different camper possibly). But, I have bookmarked and printed this out to go in the folder to remember which way to go on the axle ratio (the 3.73).

Now, we just have to keep the current truck under 100,000 miles until the end of July when a new one would hopefully come in. I've already calculated mileage to NY state and back home for that trip and bringing trailer home from current spot. Looks like there may be some backyard camping in the future until August rolls around, or at least real close to home!