2:73 with a t-5 and a warm 235 is on the edge.I never have to slip the clutch.(going across I-80 in PA i will have to drop to 4th every now and than if i am running 55-60) It probably gets only 1500 lbs at the most put in the bed. On the highway 70-80-90mph is were the motor is happy. The brakes .......well thats what bumpers are for.
Seroiusly 3:00 would be fine 3:55 if you dont take it on trips.These little motors like to run 1500-2800 and will live a long time.Will it runn 4500 yep but you wont get 350,00 miles like my last one. I personally would not bother 3.11 to 3:55(what rear has a 3:11 anyway???)
