what happens if front and rear diff ratio doesn't match?

[iwan]

what should you be expecting if you got them wrong? any distinct noise or signs?

when i got my halfcut, it doesn't come with the original 3.5 rear axle. but the sales person told me a V26 (swb 2.8 tdi) rear axle has the same ratio as the 3.5 V6 (4.636). got it installed and running already but when i shift into 4wd mode, nothing weird came out of it. 4H, 4HLc and 4LLc all working just fine. no noise what so ever.

just to cure the uncertainty, what should you be expecting if you got them wrong?

[Ian Sharpe]

2,8tdis had a 4.90 ratio, 3.5 l petrols had 4.636.

This difference is too much I would say, will cause probems in the long run.

[NJV6]

I'd jack one side of the vehicle up, ie one front and one rear, put it in 4WD and mark both front and rear wheels (such as chalk) and turn one a full rotation and see where the other is at.

[NJV6]

Hi Ian, the 2.8's we got over here in the SWB were 4.636 so he might/should be ok!

Our 2.8 LWB's were the same as yours - 4.9.

Glen

[oldmate]

try driving in a straight line on the road with 4wd selected. It will make alot of noise and might be a bit hesitant to take off if the ratios are different.

[iwan]

thanks for the replies. appreciate it very much.

your suggestion is very worthwhile doing glen. i might just do that. i do remember clearly that the rear axle i got was marked v26 4m40. i did put the gear in 4wd mode and drove it on the pavement for few meters. no weird noise or the car hesitated.. i guess i got it right eh?

[iwan]

i brought her to a nearby 'playground' and test the 4wd system. everything works great so far. just that, the low gears aren't low enough..oh boy.