Need axle ratio ID help...

[Super Chief]

What gear ratio would/could an 81 cherokee, 258-6, 4 spd, np208, ex forest service in CA have? I assume model 20 but possibly D44. Thanks.

[dnixon]

this probably doesn't help.. but all i have ever heard of is either the 2.73 and the ones with the tow package having a 3.31's but this topic was just up a little bit ago.. here is the link to it... http://www.ifsja.org/cgi-bin/ubbcgi/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=2;t=012933

good luck!

[UnkleMunky]

Yeh, I think 2.73(2.7222) and 3.31 are the ones offered at that time. I had to do some research to nail the ratio on my '83 J10- when I got it a few months ago, and here's a few links that will hopefully help...the AMC-20 page was VERY helpful....

http://www.jeeptech.com/axle/amc20.html
http://www.jeeptech.com/axle/d44f.html
http://www.jeeptech.com/axle/d44.html

Take notice that there is a difference in coding for a wide-track vs. a narrow-track AMC-20, but if you clean it off, and look in the right spot, you should be able to nail it from that alone.

Doublecheck by checking the Front D44 axle, and hopefully there is a tag or something telling you what you got there too...should give you the division. I ended up having a 2.73 ratio...my codes:

front: (front code: 5359664 | 2 72 | 49-18 (49/18=2.7222222), open)
rear: (rear code: D- 2.73 ratio, open diff)

Being they matched, I figured I got it right! smile.gif

Hope this helps. If all else fails, yes, you can jack it up and do it the old fashioned way by counting the revolutions! smile.gif

PS....being a forest service, there could be some oddities, but if it's like a normal regular Cherokee of that year, should be an AMC20 on the rear and a Dana 44 on the front. Check those pages noted above to ID them by looks....an AMC20 will have a round pumpkin, a D44 rear(used on earlier AND later models) will have the shaped type...see the pics they show to compare!

Take care....

[ September 19, 2002, 01:08 AM: Message edited by: UnkleMunky ]

[River Beast]

Rob,

The AMC 20 on RBY's W/T has the gear ratio stamped into the cast housing on the flat surface near the diff cover...check it.. yo may have to clean it off.... 3.31's ....my 3.31's will be changed... errr.... RBY's gears that is... ;)

[porkchop]

I think you said it right the first time, Todd ;) .

[Super Chief]

Thank for the help guys.
Rob