but with 33s definitely need to regear?

 

U dont have to, but ull be lacking some power and mpg if u dont

 

The stock tires with D35/3.55 gears is roughly equal to 33" tires with 4.10 gearing, if you want to restore the "range" it had stock - matching engine speed to ground speed in each tranny gear). Most guys I know with 33" tires choose 4.56 gearing to gain performance (more engine rpm at any given tire rotation speed = more torque to get you thru the rough stuff) IF they are off-roading a lot. Fuel economy will go down some compared to the 4.10, but then, the weight and rotational drag of the taller tires is going to reduce your mpg, too (takes more power to turn those larger meats!).

BTW: 4.56 gears seem to be the easiest, most common to find, too. Another thing that might limit your selection is what size of gearing your stock carrier will accept. I've had companies tell me my stock D35 will take either, while another says their 4.10 will fit, but if I want 4.56 (bigger diameter) I'll need another carrier... Anyone else clarify this for us please?

I've been pricing 4.10 gear sets and installing them myself, and found it varies all over the place! Decided to try and find a complete Ford 8.8 axle locally out of an Explorer with stock 4.10's (not as common, but was an option) - they are very plentiful around here with 3.73 gears for $150 typically for the whole used assembly, plus many have factory disk brakes which I'd really like... No idea what it'll cost you in Canada...

 

so many options i dont know how you guys decide on what to do. as much as i would like to learn, i dont want it to be apart for 6 months. and parts arent plentiful around here. like my jeep sits like 21 inches+- to my rockers. height isnt a concern to me as much as the diffs.

 

i would rather plant power to all four or atleast the rear and maybe even keep my 31 ats for a while? is that an option? or not worth it

 

if you 31s have life left in them keep them, and just save up and start collecting the parts you will need for more lift/bigger tires

 

i have put 15k on my a/ts lol there firestone destinations, is buying a locker a good idea? keep my 31s lock the rear and chip away at the bigger picture as i can? there is a kid in town with a 85 gmc on 35s and thinks hes the coolest guy in 5000 miles. and i just wanna be able to keep up with him.

 

but these open diffs are killing me.