Posted by RDavis on Tuesday, September 21, 2004 at 11:59PM :
In Reply to: 5.83 vs 4.89 Difference in Performance posted by Paul(in NY) on Tuesday, September 21, 2004 at 9:13PM :
Stock PWs w/230's would most definately benefit from 5:83's offroad but, onroad driving at speeds above 45-50 mph benefits the drivetrain using 4:89's. Of course the higher gears cause a loss of power in acceleration and with loads. This power loss is increased with the increase in tire diameter.
The 251 fairs better but the same situation applies.
A V-8 conversion is the only way to add the hp and torque needed to overcome the powerloss caused by higher gearing and/or taller tires. Of course the lower gears really give these trucks their "GRUNT" when using the L-head engines but a V-8 with the 5:83's almost seems like its over powered in a manner of speaking. You can't have your cake and eat it too! Either you set it up for mostly onroad or offroad use and just bear with the shortcomings of the other when using it for its setup intended purpose.
At 60% on road use w/V8,np435 I'd just stay
with the 4:89's. If it was 60% offroad use or better I'd say use the 5:83's w/reduced road speed. Using a fairly fresh 251 I'd go with the 4:89's but use my low gear w/tranny and T-case offroad and try not to go over, at most a 38" dia. tire. Using a 230 I'd just stick to stock dia. tires (36")and the lower 5:83 gears with reduced onroad speed.
Now mind you this is just my opinion based on what I've experienced in my life driving and offroading having owned many diff. makes of 4x4s and hauling loads and having experienced many varieties of 4x4 conditions.
I am no expert but I am experienced and have been stuck enough to now know what not to do!
There are some who could take a chevette places I couldn't go in a PW SO, base your setup on the level of confidence you have in yourself as a capable 4-wheeler.