Correct, an H-1 uses esentially an AMC model 20, actually A very strong differential just got the bad name as you said the 2 piece axles were the problem. A model 20 has A 8 7/8" ring gear which is only an 1/8 smaller than A ford 9" just doesn't have A pinion pilot bearing to steady the pinion gear like the 9". As for using A lower gear ratio to try to increase strength is backwards. the lower the ratio the smaller the pinion gear gets and creates A new weak point but at the same time requires less input torque to rotate the tires so it's kinda A catch 22 situation.
Quote:
Originally posted by ketcat:
Just my 2 cents.....
4.88:1 with 35's puts you back to about stock with 33's so that sounds good. Problem is the lower (higher numerically) the gear the more teeth which equals less metal per tooth so in theory with all things being equal a 4.88:1 is weaker than a 4.56:1.
As I recall the H1 uses an AMC model 20 differential which was used in CJ’s etc……and not known to be the most durable differential in the world especially the two piece axles. The reason it holds together in an H1 is because they run a 2.56:1 or 2.73:1 gear ratio and multiply at the geared hub.
My opinion if people are breaking gears finding stronger ones is a good idea but I’m not sure going to a lower gear is the best idea. At least if it’s stock the dealer will warranty it for 50k miles.
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