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Sunbeamfanatic

New Member

• May 6, 2017

• #1

Hi All,

This is probably a simple newbie question, but when you change the axles / diff. ratios do you need to make sure the front axle ratio is the same as the rear axle ratio? It would seem that if you don't the wheels, front to rear, would want to turn at different speeds for the same engine rpm?

Many thanks,

SF

 

landowner

Pensioner Pete

Full Member

• May 6, 2017

• #2

yes they would and only one axle would drive the other would free wheel

 

Stretch

Well-Known Member

• May 6, 2017

• #3

Relatively difficult to find differentials (that will fit) with different ratios however. If you manage to find a pair of Range Rover differentials that allow a lower revving engine it is a popular alternative solution to an overdrive (especially if you don't go off road much)

 

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RobertP

Active Member

• May 6, 2017

• #4

If you are in 2-wheel-drive you are not using the front diff, so it won't matter. If you know you'll never use 4-w-d, then ok. But not a good selling point! You, or a future owner, would have to know about it. If it were me, I'd put the required ratio on the back, then remove the front prop shaft if the diffs were different. (Obviously none of this applies to permanent 4-w-d models - then it's a big NO.)

 

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Sunbeamfanatic

New Member

• May 7, 2017

• #5

Thanks guys, much as I thought.

Separate thread about to be posted regarding axle upgrades

 

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divie

Well-Known Member

• May 8, 2017

• #6

With miss matched diffs unless you are on very slippy terrain it is a good way to wreck an axle or if unlucky a gearbox if you use four wheel drive. If you want to try the effect just change the rear diff and only use two wheel drive, change the front if happy with the results. If you are considering 3.54 rangie diffs you will need a very healthy petrol or 200TDI up front. A 2.25 diesel will not pull them and you will be driving around in third gear a lot. Oh remember the diffs are heavy buggers when you do change them.