Are Gears Needed for Your Conversion?
Whether you need a gear conversion depends on the weight you're hauling. Here's how to determine the right setup for your truck.
When You Don't Need Gear Reduction
If your total load is under 14,000 lbs, you can typically run super single tires without a gear conversion. The factory gear ratio is sufficient for lighter loads and everyday driving.
When Gear Conversion is Essential
If your total load exceeds 14,000 lbs, you need a 6:17 gear ratio conversion. The larger tire diameter changes the effective ratio, putting excessive strain on the drivetrain without proper gearing.
Fuel
Better Fuel Efficiency
Load
Increased Load Capacity
Torque
Enhanced Torque
HP
Improved Horsepower
Consequences of Skipping Gear Conversion
Running oversized tires without proper gearing puts your drivetrain at serious risk. Here's what can go wrong.
Excessive Transmission Temperatures
The transmission works harder to compensate for incorrect gearing, leading to dangerous heat buildup.
Burnt Differential Oil
Incorrect ratios cause excessive friction and heat in the differential, degrading the oil rapidly.
Transmission Issues
Premature wear and potential failure of transmission components from constant strain.
Inaccurate Speedometer / Odometer Readings
Larger tires without recalibrated gearing throw off speed and distance measurements.
Malfunctioning TCM / PCM / ABS Systems
Electronic control modules receive incorrect speed data, causing cascading system errors.
The Math
The 6:17 ratio restores the effective gear ratio to match factory performance with larger tires. Here's the comparison.
Super Single Setup
Factory Setup
Difference between setups
3.7%
The 6:17 ratio brings the super single setup within 3.7% of the factory effective ratio, restoring proper drivetrain performance.
Available Gear Conversions
6:17 gear ratio conversions for 2017+ Ford F-450 and F-550 front and rear axles.
DANA 60 / "Pro 80" Series Front Axles
6:17 gear ratio for 2017+ F-450/F-550 front axles. Compatible with Dana 60 and Pro 80 series housings.
DANA 300 and 315 Series Rear Axle
6:17 gear ratio for 2017+ F-450/F-550 rear axles. Designed for Dana 300 and 315 series rear differentials.
Ready to Upgrade Your Gears?
Contact our team for expert guidance on gear conversions.