Dodge Dakota Axle Ratios

I plan to replace the rear end of my 1998 Dakota (4WD auto 2.94:1 rear
axle) with one from a 1990 model (3.21:1 axle ratio ). According to
the service manual 1988 Dakotas shipped with either a 2.94(standard
equipment)or 3.5(heavy -duty )rear end. Will this 1990 rear end be an
acceptable replacement for an '88?


Thanks in Advance

Tom

 

Not unless you change *both* axles... think about it...

the ratio ought to be fine, it's in between the two that the factory
offered for your vehicle. you might or might not notice a slight
decrease in fuel economy and you probably will need your speedo
recalibrated.

nate

 

If your replace your rear diff with one with a 3.21 ratio, you need to
also replace the front with a 3.21 if you ever plan to use 4wd again.