I just purchased a new 2500 HO 6speed Quad cab 2wd. The window sticker indicates :<br>&quot;Transmission - 6-Speed HD Manual<br> Axel - Rear, 11.50&quot;<br>It does not say anything else about the 4.10 rear end option.<br>I have asked a couple of sales people if this is the standard or the 4.10 rear end and the answer is they think its the standard.<br>Does anyone out there know for sure? Although I will be pulling a large 5er I dont think I need a low speed rear end as it will cut the milage down considerably.<br>Any answers appreciated.

 

Sillivad,<br> I specifically ordered mine with a 3.73 gear. I just now checked my window sticker and it reads exactly like this:<br><br>Transmission - 6-Speed HD Manual $400<br> Axle - Rear, 11.50<br>Axle - Anti-Spin Differential $285<br><br> You can be assured yours is a 3.73 gear .<br><br>The Boss Hog<br>(raining in Florida)

 

You can go to the service desk and have them run the vin number for you...that will tell you exactly what it is.<br><br>However I think if it is not mentioned it is the 3.73 rear. My trucks build sheet states it is 3.73.<br><br>There is also a code plate under the hood facing forward on the frame pilar for the fender and headlights directly behind the passenger headlight and it is painted flatblack like the frame. If you can decipher/break the codes in coordination with the internet Dodge Ram build site that will tell you as well.

 

Thanks Guys; that helps a lot. Does anyone know where the site is where you can decipher the VIN code. I thought I saw it at this site but am not sure.

 

sullivad,

The VIN or body code plate decode sheet won't help because the axle ratio information is not stored in either of them. The 11.50 refers to the diameter of the the ring gear (in inches). My truck has a &quot;equipment identification&quot; label inside the glove compartment box that shows the axle ratio along with all the options installed on the truck. See the attached picture.

 

My window sticker specifically mentions (right after tranny info) Axle Ratio - 4.10 MSRP $50.

 

sullivad,

Here is the VIN info you wanted.

From the Dodge Truck 2003 Service Manual

POSITION:
INTERPRETATION CODE = DESCRIPTION
1 Country of Origin:
1 = Manufactured By DaimlerChrysler Corporation
3 = Manufactured By DaimlerChrysler De Mexico
2 Make:
D = Dodge
3 Vehicle Type:
2 = Incomplete with Side Airbag
3 = Truck with Side Airbag
6 = Incomplete Less Side Airbag
7 = Truck Less Side Airbag
4 Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
G = 5,001-6000 lbs.
H = 6,001-7,000 lbs.
J = 7,001-8,000 lbs.
K = 8,001-9,000 lbs.
L = 9,001-10,000 lbs.
M = 10,001-14,000 lbs.
W = Buses/Incomplete Vehicles with Hydraulic Brakes
5 Vehicle Line:
A = Ram Pickup 4X2
U = Ram Pickup 4X4
6 Series:
1 = 1500
2 = 2500
3 = 3500 Less Dual Rear Wheels
4 = 3500 With Dual Rear Wheels
7 Body Style:
6 = Conventional Cab
8 = Quad Cab Full Rear Doors
8 Engine:
K = 3.7L 6 cyl. MPI Gasoline
N = 4.7L 8 cyl. MPI Gasoline
D = 5.7L 8 cyl. SMPI Gasoline
6 = 5.9L 6 cyl. Turbo Diesel
C = 5.9L 6 cyl. Turbo Diesel High Output
W = 8.0L 10 cyl. MPI Gasoline
Z = 5.9L 8 cyl. SMPI Gasoline Light Duty
9 Check Digit:
0 through 9 or X
10 Model Year:
3 = 2003
11 Plant Location:
S = Dodge City
G = Saltillo
J = St. Louis (North)
12 thru 17 Vehicle Build Sequence

 

Kinda easy way to find out it take a piece of chalk and mark a line ont the driveshaft level with a line on the pumpkin. Then draw a line on the tire pointing straight down. Make one full rotation of the tire. And count how many times the driveshaft turns. If it turns 3 1/2 times hten you have 3.54. Turns 3 3/4 you have 3.73. If it turns like 4 1/8 then you have 4.10. Thats the way I have always figured it out. <br>SD03

 

Check your glove box!!! There's a sticker in there that tells all. Tell axle ratio, 4X4, camper etc. etc...... ;D

 

Thanks again fellows. Great information. Thats why I like this forum. ;D

 

If it doesn't say on the sticker, it's the 3.73 gears.

 

Ummm what if ther IS NO STICKER?!~?!~?!~?

 

I believe the trucks come standard with 3.73's. If you have the 4.10's then there will be a $50 add on your sticker.