Need input on gearing

[Coldpunk]

89 350 700/241

I use my k5 for daily driving, and highway trips to go camping/canoeing. I bought it in rough shape. Then bought a Haynes manual, tools, and got it running and absolutely love it. I refer to it as a big puzzle that I get to drive around. I've made it this far mainly searching the forum, using the Haynes, and occasionally running things buy a mechanic buddy when I'm completely stumped.

I've got it running like a top, now I'm digging into the drivetrain...after blowing a 10bolt. I scraped the diff on a rock camping(I'm guessing) didn't notice and blew it up two days after I got home. Lesson learned. Expensive lesson(in relation to how in expensive everything else I've done).

Found out that there weren't 3.73's in it like I thought, but 2.73's. I should have checked that before I put 33"s on. So regear yes? What to put in with 33"s 3.73? 4.10? What gets me the best mpg?

Also I've got a line on a cheap 12 bolt (150$), also found some 3/4 tons on craigslist(500$) but I'm not sure if they're out of a k5 or a truck. I've got no welding skills (someday) to move those perches so I can install them on my k5. So the 12 bolt looks like a decent option since it's out of a k5 and I can just go through it, clean it up and bolt it on.

Input appreciated! Keep in mind this is not going to be a wheeled. More of a go anywhere in the winter and camping k5 which I also drive in town a lot because it's way more fun than my other car.


Edit* sorry for the novel but it drives me crazy when people don't provide enough background info and the first 30 posts are you guys asking for more info.

 

[munepit]

Id say 4.10s

 

[shady]

I think the 3/4's will bolt right in. shouldnt need to move the perches

And deffinately the 4.10s or more Mine with 700r4/3.73s/33"s hunts all over on the interstate. It can never figure out what gear it wants.

 

[Hogback Fabrication]

3/4 tons bolt right in and commonly have 3.73's or (hopefully) 4.10's. Of course you would need 8 lug wheels. That's a great way to go, even if it is way overkill for 33's, it gives you plenty of room to go bigger if you want down the road. Plus you get better brakes and the axles are cheaper than re-gearing your 1/2 tons.

It's the 1 ton rear axles that need perches/shock mounts moved.

 

[bensk5]

3/4 tons bolt right in and commonly have 3.73's or (hopefully) 4.10's. Of course you would need 8 lug wheels. That's a great way to go, even if it is way overkill for 33's, it gives you plenty of room to go bigger if you want down the road. Plus you get better brakes and the axles are cheaper than re-gearing your 1/2 tons.

It's the 1 ton rear axles that need perches/shock mounts moved.

Yeah im the same on this comment. In the future you cant go wrong with the bigger axles.

 

[Coldpunk]

Thanks for advice

I appreciate you guys' opinions. Looks like I'm going to pick up the 3/4 tons for 500 delivered.

Now to find some 8 lug wheels...I see white stockers with dog dish covers or white wagon wheels in my future as well.

 

[82355]

Go 3/4 ton axles.

Also, I recommend white stock wheels with dog dish hub caps, but that is just my personal preference.

Martin

 

[Coldpunk]

Got em

Picked up the 3/4 tons today! Now to find some time to open them up and clean and replace my way through. Found a great thread from mr. smartass with lots of pics. Which axle would be easiest for an inexperienced guy to tackle first? The 14bff or 44?

I may get to start tomorrow and post some pics. The 44 doesn't have a lockout hub, and both axles are mud caked.