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Is it worth changing out the ring and pinion gears to change the ratio and leave it stock otherwise?
>>> in my opinion no. I would change the rear end out because you end up w/ better brakes as a side note. your choices of ratios are greater.
Are there other rearends which are readily available that could be put in that will install relatively easy (ie not narrowing it)?
>>> readily is a relative term. there is a little work but yes you do NOT have to narrow or widen any of the good choices.
Are there rearends that would fit and I could keep the 6 lug pattern?
>>> absolutely.
this is a very popular subject and has been round n round. learn to do searches see upper right corner under new posting button.

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http://www.stovebolt.com/bboard/cgi-bin//ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=5;t=001398;p=1#000008

http://www.stovebolt.com/bboard/cgi-bin//ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=2;t=013343;p=1#000002

Jim & Caroline
The highway is for gamblers, better use your good sense."
Gooday-that's my 1¢ answer due to the lousy economy ~ cause I ain't got - no . mo . doe
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