2018 Expedition Gearing Option Decision

[stimpson.j.cat]

My mistake. I mis-remembered.

I would point out that he is at max tow weight (5900 or 6100 lbs depending on trim) w/ the 3.31 rear. I kind of prefer to be at 75% tow limit...

The 3.73 also is a limited-slip axle while the 3.31 is not. And I prefer the adjustability of the electric brake controller vs. surge.

So yes, either rear would work. I would still recommend a 3.73 to the OP. The $1500, while not cheap, pales with respect to a $53K+ vehicle. It also gives you more flexibility for future boat upgrades or other towing, and is likely more desirable if they ever decide to sell it.

I happen to think the pros of a 3.73 w/ HD tow (more towing capacity, transmission cooler, limited slip axle, 7-pin connector+electric brake controller) outweigh the negatives (cost, slight mileage decrease).

You think otherwise. All good. Either vehicle will be awesome. The new powerplants w/ a 10-speed transmission really make either rear an option.

I'm just waiting for when they put the 3.0L diesel in one. That's the one I want.

 

[proeasy]

Agree with J.Cat, best part of the package is the additional cooling capacity and eLSD rear axle.

Going from 3.31 to 3.73 is a change of approx. 12.6%. This weekend I drove a Expy with Tow Package. At approx. 80, I would guess I was turning approx. 2100 rpm. with a 3.31 would estimate approx. 1825 rpm, give or take a few.

GM with identical 10 speed ratio's goes with 3.23 FDR and self locking diff standard

Effective final drive, except for tires

GM 3.23 X 0.63 = 2.0349

Expy Standard 3.31 X 0.63 = 2.085
Expy Tow Pkg 3.73 X 0.63 = 2.349

personally not a fan of open rear differentials that rely on slip control as first intervention