3.55 or 3.92 axel ratio?

[Kodabear]

First let me say I’m am one of the least mechanical individuals you’d ever meet, so I’m talking about something I really know extremely little to nothing about. But I’m looking at a new Laramie and they have two in the same color I like and only difference is the axel ratio. The one with the 3.92 ratio is about $600 more and the other thing it has is a 33 gallon tank.

So I’d like to know what the preference and reason would be for anyone willing to take the time to answer. The one thing I believe I’ve come to understand is the 3.92 will give more pulling power but will drink more gas. I rarely pull anything except borrowing a trailer once in a great while for dump and limb drop offs. How much gas difference is there?

Appreciate all responses.

 

[metalchewy]

With the 8 speed trans the mileage difference will be less, but the 3.92 will get a bit worse mileage, but also have a bit more get-up and go in the lower gears.

Keep in mind that It's a truck and not really meant for gas mileage.

My personal opinion, If one truck has a electronic locker or limited slip differential , and the other one doesn't that would make the mileage question moot for me. Limited slip would be my choice over the elocker as well.

If you are going to put bigger tires on it, the 3.92 would also be my choice. They reduce the ratio to the road as well.

If both rears are limited slip and you plan to off-road much, the 3.92 would also be my pick.

My 0.02.

 

[Mlarv5]

I agree with @metalchewy. The towing between the two will be minimal. I would pick an E-locker truck over a none E-locker every time. The limited slip would be my next choose. I have the Big Horn SO with 3.55 rear end 4WD. I got 21mpg heading to New Orleans and back from eastern TN.

The E-locker will help in the snow or mud one taken off. The locker can be turned on and off while the limited slip can not.

If you are going to put larger tires on it the 3.92, if you are leaving it pretty much stock then flip a coin.