Square body chevy truck gear ratio

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etedeschi72

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Jul 11, 2024
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Location
Massachusetts
First Name
Eric
Truck Year
1981
Truck Model
K20
Engine Size
454
Ok, I've got an '85 K20 4x4. Its got a 454 engine, a SM465 4 speed transmission and what I believe (99% sure) are 4:10 gears front and rear with 33x12.50x16.5 tires. I really don't know anything about an RPM range or what a good one woul be but I'm just guessing around the 1800-2000 range. Now, my long term goal is to swap in an LS 5.3 and maybe an NV4500 but neither is happening any time soon. Anyway, I hate the low slow gearing that's in it now and want to change them. I don't use it for off roading or anything like that. It's my daily driver for Spring, Summer and Fall and I do tow trailers occasionally. So my question I guess is, what would be the best all around gearing for what I'm using it for? I'm looking for faster speeds, something that'll go 70-75 maybe on the highway and for occasionally towing. I've heard that 3:55's would be good. Someone please help lol
 
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Grit dog

Full Access Member
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May 18, 2020
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Location
Auburn, Washington
First Name
Todd
Truck Year
1986, 1977
Truck Model
K20, C10
Engine Size
454, 350
I have the same gear ratio truck and it’ll do 70-75 all day long….
You mean those speeds at lower rpm’s?
I’d suggest just spending 10 minutes with any of the online rpm/gear ratio calculators since it’s your truck and your decision and you didn’t provide some of the info needed for anyone to make a recommendation anyways. (Tire size and desired rpm’s at your desired speed). Plus you’ll learn quickly how to answer your own question.
 

etedeschi72

Junior Member
Joined
Jul 11, 2024
Posts
6
Reaction score
0
Location
Massachusetts
First Name
Eric
Truck Year
1981
Truck Model
K20
Engine Size
454
Thank you, I'll try it. I didn't realize until you said something that I forgot to put a tire size and RPM'S. I'll edit my post.
 

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