How do gears impact tow load

[Geekjeep]

I’ve got a sport a on 37s. I’m upgrading to 4.88s. What do you guys think is a safe weight to tow? I know one thing is pulling power and the other is cooling. I know the max tow has the 4.10 and wider axles. Just wondering what you guys think is the safe weight to tow with the set up

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[wannajeep]

I don't think a gear ratio change will change your safe tow limit. Safe towing is (among other things) about how much towed mass is pushing the truck when you brake/decelerate, and I don't see gear ratio being relevant there. As for pulling power, even if a lower gear ratio makes more torque available at lower RPMs, I see this as making it easier to get a load moving, not the ability to pull more weight.

I had a JK 3.6L manual with 4.10 on 32s towing 3,500 lb and changed it to 4.88 with 33s and the difference was underwhelming.

That said, I think your 4.88 will be a great match for 37s, especially if you have an auto transmission. As for weight, I'd stick with factory ratings but take into account any added loads. There are GVWR / tow / haul calculators out there somewhere.

If you're towing heavy, consider a brake controller or at the very least a weight distributing hitch.

 

[Geekjeep]

Oh I’d never go past stock. But just wondering where safe stock levels are

 

[Gvsukids]

Oh I’d never go past stock. But just wondering where safe stock levels are

Well your tow rating with the tow package is only 6000lb to begin with.

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