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On a 2010 F-150 crew cab with the 5.4 liter V8 and the 6-speed automatic, the different models appear to come variously equipped with a 3.31, 3.55 or 3.73 rear axle.

Can anyone comment on how much real world difference these ratios make, say when towing a load in the 5000-7000 pound range?

Obviously the 3.73 is preferred for towing but new in-stock trucks equipped with that rear end are rare.

MadScientist813

the 3.31 are going to be a dog for towing. the difference between the 3.31 and 3.73 ratios will be night and day. The 3.55s are a good medium if you are doign a lot of driving without towing because they will keep the rpms down while driving on the interstate, but 3.31 gears are more for highway than anything else. If you are doing a lot of towing, try to stay with the 3.73 gears

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3hagooeys

ditto that

First Light

Also agree with the Mad guy. Dealers order the 3.31 rear ends to impress potential buyers with the fuel economy of that particular truck - not mentioning the 3.31 gear. Towing wise, a 3.31 rear end is as mentioned above, a "dog." I have had 3.73 gears in all of my Ford trucks, and you will not notice the increase in rpms.

LiLTony43

If you buy anything buy the 3.73 you'll be sorry if you dont.

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potty dock

Just traded a ford with a 3.55 for a one with a 3.73 both with the 5.4, night vs day1

Glock Diver

No experience with anything but a 3.73.

But I can say I just towed about a 5300 lb boat/trailer rig with my V8 Explorer, with 3.73 axle, and I didn't have any problems.