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I'm trying to do some long range planning (as money allows) on which mods to make on my '94 LS (12 valve 3.0 V6). I will definitely be running 33's and am trying to decide what gearing to use. I'm looking at either 4.875's or 5.29's. Here's what I know or have calculated so far -
  • Stock gearing w/ 235's - 2553 RPM at 65 MPH
  • Stock gearing w/ 33's - 2234 RPM at 65 MPH
  • 4.88's w/ 33's - 2358 RPM at 65 MPH
  • 5.29's w/ 33's - 2556 RPM at 65 MPH
  • Torque peak at flywheel - 174 ft-lbs at 4000 RPM (factory rating)
  • Torque peak at rear wheels - 157 ft-lbs at 2000 RPM ('92 SR w/ 4.88 gears & 31's)
  • Changing to 4.88's w/ 33's is equivalent to having 4.25 gears w/ stock tires
  • Changing to 33's w/ 5.29's would be equivalent to stock gearing
So what's everyone's opinion? I'm leaning toward 4.88's as a balance between highway mileage, crawlability, & affordability. I commute 80 miles round trip, so effect on mileage is important. Also, seems like I've seen several older 4 Runners (with the 4) run 4.88's and a couple of Nissan's also running 4.88's. But, then again, the 5.29's would return me to stock gearing. What RPM should I target for at highway speeds? Out West, here, highway speeds are 75. I'm so confused!!!! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />

I think you are over complicating that problem. In any way changes in gearing are fairly small 5-10%. But I would go with 4.88 then you could swap in bigger front diff with 4.90 to install front ARB. Although, is yours smaller diff (I thought it was 92-93 only)? If not then neither option is available for the front except 4.90 front and 4.88 rear.

92 SR, 285/75R16 Yoko MT ARB locker GAST compressor AirLift 1000 MM10500 Snorkel custom rear bumper
02 Montero LS died protecting the master
08 PowerWagon (stock!)