The final drive gears are an essential part of the vehicle's drivetrain that help convert the engine's power into usable torque to propel the vehicle forward. The 1992-1996 Ford Bronco offered a couple of different final drive gears depending on the package equipped on the Bronco. In this article, we will compare the different final drive gears available for the Ford Bronco.
Most of the Broncos were offered with 3.55 drive gears, but over time many people have changed out the gears to different gears for different reasons. Usually, Broncos with taller tires will utilize a taller gear to help offset the increased diameter of the taller tires.
- The 3.08 final drive gear ratio was the most fuel-efficient option available for the Bronco. It offered a lower gear ratio, which allowed the engine to turn fewer RPMs at highway speeds. This resulted in better fuel economy and quieter operation on the highway. However, this final drive gear ratio sacrificed low-end torque, which is important for towing and off-road driving.
- The 3.55 final drive gear ratio was a balance between fuel efficiency and performance. It offered a slightly higher gear ratio than the 3.08, which provided better low-end torque for towing and off-road driving. However, this gear ratio sacrificed some fuel efficiency compared to the 3.08.
- The 3.73 final drive gear ratio was a high-performance option for the Bronco. It offered a higher gear ratio than the 3.55, which provided even better low-end torque for towing and off-road driving. However, this gear ratio sacrificed even more fuel efficiency than the 3.55. 3.73 gears are great for the mild tire diameter upgrade, including 31 and 33” diameter tires
- The 4.10, 4.56, and higher final drive gear ratio was the highest-performance option available for the Bronco. It offered the highest gear ratio, which provided the best low-end torque for towing and off-road driving. However, this gear ratio sacrificed the most fuel efficiency out of all the options. These are going to be Broncos running 35+ tires and looking to keep acceleration.
In summary, the final drive gear ratio you choose for your 1992-1996 Ford Bronco depends on your specific driving needs and preferences. If you are primarily using your Bronco for highway driving and want the best fuel efficiency, the numerically lower final drive gear ratios are the best option. If you are using your Bronco for towing or off-road driving and want a balance between fuel efficiency and performance, the 3.55 final drive gear ratio is a good choice. If you want the best low-end torque for towing or off-road driving and don't mind sacrificing fuel efficiency, the 3.73, 4.10, and higher final drive gear ratio may be the best option for you.
What RPM Will I Be At?
| | 3.08 | 3.27 | 3.55 | 3.73 | 4.10 | 4.56 |
| 31" | 1659 | 1762 | 1912 | 2009 | 2209 | 2456 |
| 33" | 1559 | 1655 | 1796 | 1888 | 2075 | 2307 |
| 35" | 1470 | 1560 | 1693 | 1780 | 1956 | 2176 |
| 37" | 1390 | 1475 | 1602 | 1683 | 1850 | 2058 |
RPM based on E4OD final drive gear ratio of .71 at 70 MPH.
- Do you have to change the front differential gears if you change your rear differential gears? Yes, you will want to match you rear and front gear ratios.
- How much does fuel economy change when I change gears? The answer can vary widely depending on tires, location, etc. Usually, you can expect an average 1-4 mpg difference when changing gears. City miles per gallon may get better because of the decrease in work the engine has to do to accelerate when increasing gears from 3.55 to 4.10 but highway miles per gallon will usually decrease because of the higher rpm the engine will be running at cruising speeds.
