So what actual rear end will hold the best gears for a T5 swap? I have a 1948 Suburban with 3 on the tree. My goal is to go 65 to 70 comfortable and still have the stock width if the rear axle. I live in a relatively flat area with some rolling hills. Of Madison Wisconsin. I may even swap in a larger chevy 6 cylinder like a 292. Any suggestions on a T5 with a 292 and which rear axle?
Not sure what my rear end is now. I assume 3.90
First thing to do is confirm what your rear axle is. A 3.90 rear axle is a good one for an OD tranny.
Here’s a video I made showing a simple way to calculate the rear axle gear for an open diff. You don’t even need to take off the back cover.
Rear axle calculation video. Next thing to do is calculate your rear tire diameter. Here’s a nice website to do that. It’s the third section.
Tire diameter linkThe S10 T5 came with either a 0.73, 0.76, or 0.86 overdrive. The Camaro T5 usually had a 0.73 or 0.63 OD gear.
You’ll probably be better off with an S10 T5 from 1993 or earlier because it will have the correct Muncie bolt pattern for the bell.
If your burb isn’t too heavy, then the inline 6 will be able to handle the 0.73 OD gear on the flat and might need to downshift on the hills. Don’t expect a huge improvement on MPG. There’s lots more to say on the subject. Post your info about tire diameter and rear axle gear when you have it.
