rear axle ID tag code?

[garcia]

I read a code listed in the technical section on this site, but can't determine the meaning on my 89 GW rear axle tag. According to my manual its a Dana 44 with one of three possible ratios. the tag reads:
5300 4028
2 72 605329-2
Anybody know how to interpret? I would hope I don't really have to crack the case and count teeth on the ring and pinion. Thanks for feedback -- mark

[joe]

You have the 2.72's(first 3 digits, second row). The only other available option was 3.31's in the 1980-91 Wags.

[garcia]

Thanks Joe -- I think that's a pretty high end ratio for any 4x4, but I suppose w/ a 3:31 set up it would just suck more gas than it already does -- regards -- mark

[Cecil14]

Honestly I don't know if it would burn more gas with the 3.31s, unless you do a lot of highway driving. The lower gears would probably be better for in town because you would get off the line easier and would take fewer rpms, thus burning less gas.
The 2.72s are nice for the highway though, got 20mpg in my J with 31's on a road trip once!!

Anthony