Why, Why, Why is my factory axle ratio so high?

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grantpa

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'00 EB Expo with 4.6/4R70W/8.8/NO Tow/2WD. From the factory, why are there 3.31's in a heavy SUV with stock 32" tires?!?!?!? Even 3.73's are still too high. By most estimators it should be around 4.10/4.11's-if not lower. So again, what is the reasoning behind this? The 3.31's sure explain the very sluggish performance-even with a tiny 281ci V8 in a heavy vehicle.
 

ExplorerTom

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Regear it.

I've got 3.55 in mine and live at more than a mile above sea level. I've been thinking of regearing mine.
 

Snag

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My guess is your rig not having the tow package, smallest engine package available and 2 wheel drive I believe every manufacturers theory and probably on paper it works, it shows better fuel mileage for meeting Government regulation. But in reality we know that is not a fact. Typically as you mention smaller engines need more torque reduction which is gears. But changing them out is very costly.

I also could say "another good idea" by Ford. But not sure you would buy that one.

My 05 Expedition with 3:73 and 5.4 pulls well. Probably better then my 04 Dodge 1500 Hemi with I think 3:55
 

1955moose

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Before you start contemplating a big bill, to swap out gears, make sure your engine, exhaust, and transmission/ torque converter are performing as they should. You'd be surprised the horsepower that comes back after unclogging an Exaust, or finding out your fuel pressure was low. Eliminate the easy things before you start plunking down cash, and still have a slow, albeit higher revving SUV.


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ExplorerTom

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And check the throttle cable. Make sure it's not stretched- full throttle on the pedal might not be full throttle at the throttle body.
 

Habbibie

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And check the throttle cable. Make sure it's not stretched- full throttle on the pedal might not be full throttle at the throttle body.

I've never went wot on the expy. What's the point in that guys it's a heavy slug not built for speed, oddly enough I don't abuse the engine and it blows up... The way the world works is beyond me.
 

1955moose

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You got one of those life ain't fair blows bubba! Sh:$ happens all the time to me too. It was just your week. Amazing thing is time does heal all, eventually.


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5.4T

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I used to dog the hell out of my 02 navigator and never missed a lick! That positraction with 3.73 gear and it ran awsome!but it did have the 32v 5.4 with a few mods lol
 

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