When it comes to knowing the gear ratio of your vehicle's rear end, it can be a bit confusing, especially if you don't have access to the owner's manual or the manufacturer's website. Fortunately, there is a way to determine the gear ratio by using the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). In this article, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to tell rear end gear ratio by VIN in 2023.
Understanding the VIN
The VIN is a unique code that identifies your vehicle. It is usually located on the driver's side dashboard and can also be found on the registration and insurance documents. The VIN contains 17 characters, each of which represents specific information about your vehicle. The first three characters of the VIN are known as the World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) and identify the manufacturer of the vehicle.
The fourth through eighth characters of the VIN are known as the Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) and provide information about the vehicle's make, model, and engine type. The ninth character of the VIN is known as the check digit, which is used to verify the validity of the VIN. The tenth character of the VIN represents the model year of the vehicle.
Locating the Rear Axle Code
The next step in determining the rear end gear ratio by VIN is to locate the rear axle code. This code is usually located on the driver's side door jamb or on the differential itself. The rear axle code consists of two letters and a number, such as "GU6" or "GT4". The letters represent the manufacturer of the rear axle, while the number represents the gear ratio.
If you cannot find the rear axle code on the door jamb or differential, you can also check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer's customer service department to obtain the information.
Deciphering the Rear Axle Code
Once you have located the rear axle code, you can decipher it to determine the gear ratio. The first letter of the code represents the manufacturer of the rear axle. For example, "G" represents General Motors, "F" represents Ford, and "D" represents Dana.
The second letter of the code represents the type of rear axle. For example, "U" represents a full-floating axle, "S" represents a semi-floating axle, and "C" represents a conventional axle.
The number at the end of the code represents the gear ratio. For example, "GU6" represents a 3.42 gear ratio, while "GT4" represents a 3.73 gear ratio. You can use a gear ratio calculator or consult your owner's manual to determine the exact gear ratio based on the code.
Conclusion
Knowing the gear ratio of your vehicle's rear end is important for a variety of reasons, such as determining towing capacity and improving performance. By using the VIN and locating the rear axle code, you can easily determine the gear ratio of your vehicle's rear end. Remember to decipher the code to ensure accurate results. If you have any questions or need assistance, don't hesitate to contact the manufacturer's customer service department for help.
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