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Shopping for a pickup truck can be challenging as it involves looking deeper into its parts to ensure your choice will meet your needs and lifestyle. From analyzing the motor, transmission, torque, driveline choices, and more, there’s plenty of specifications to think about.

Part of the details you can’t ignore includes the axle ratio options of a vehicle, which can make or mar your pickup truck’s torque and towing capacity. More than that, it also plays a pivotal role in indicating the vehicle’s fuel economy.

What is Axle Ratio and Why Does it Matter?

Axle ratio defines the number of rations of a vehicle. This includes the driveshaft, which is responsible for producing one rotation of the axle. The axle ratio plays a critical role since modern cars are made with intricate gears to promote different rates. Hence, the rear axle allows the wheels to rotate at different speeds to maintain excellent traction.

The axle ratio of a pickup truck is between three to four, which means the driveshaft will need to turn between three to four times to turn to achieve one rotation of the axle—with that in mind, knowing the axle ratio matters since it different numbers can have various impacts on the vehicle.

What are the Different Trade-Offs of Varying Axle Ratios For Your Truck?

A higher ratio, like a 3.9, for instance, gives drivers the ability to carry and pull heavier loads. However, the trade-off between a high axle ratio means you’re sacrificing fuel economy and speed.

On the other hand, a lower axle ratio promotes a higher fuel economy with lower torque and towing power. With that in mind, choosing the right axle ratio largely depends on your needs and how you plan to operate the truck.

Different Types of Axle Ratios For Trucks - What is a Standard Axle Ratio?

A standard axle ratio is generally the best, universal choice for most truck drivers, especially for those taking highway speeds as part of their route. Turning the axle faster means the driver can benefit from burning fuel, which saves on fuel since the engine doesn’t have to work double to turn the wheels.

This is an excellent choice for truck drivers who need to prioritize road speed or fuel economy. Meanwhile, front or rear-wheel-drive trucks also have varying ratios depending on the rear and front axle, but all-wheel drive trucks work better with similar front and rear axle ratios.

The Bottom Line: Choosing the Right Axle Ratio For Your Truck that Caters to Your Daily Needs

Choosing the right axle ratio for your truck depends on how much you need to tow and how fast you need to drive. You can quickly determine the average by assessing the weight of your daily cargo and finding how much money you can save when you achieve fewer miles per gallon.

If you’re looking for a wide selection of aftermarket US diesel parts like an axle for your pickup truck in Western Montana and other parts of the USA, we’re your best option!