Choice of Gears

[Ross]

I don't want this to be one of those wars like "which SC is better", but since I'm thinking about 4.10's I need to ask.
I remember in the past seeing some threads about either Ford Racing Gears or maybe some other brands. Those of you who have one or the other, or who know about differences in them, please give me some guidance as to pros and cons as you see them for different brands.
Nicely and politely, please.
Thanks

[valleyman]

Ross - first let me say that I don't know anything about other brands or anything about gears in the first place. I have had the Ford Racing 4.10s in my N/A car for over 25K miles without a whisper of trouble. There is absolutely no change in the noise level from OEM. Frankly, I went with Ford Racing because that's what Dennis Reinhart recommended. I did have them installed by a shop that works ONLY on rear-ends -- differentials and axles and that's it, they don't even do rear brakes or suspension. As I recall I paid about $600 for the install which included new seals and bearings everywhere and all the fluids. I have't regretted it one second: if you can swallow the cost the peace of mind that you get from having true experts in the field do the work is well worth it. All parts (even the Ford Racing 4.10s that I supplied!) were guaranteed for two years. I was willing to pay extra for people who have that kind of confidence in their chosen field when it's something that I know nothing about myself. Hope this helps.:bandit:

[fastblackmerc]

I used Ford Racing 4.10's also. They are quiet as the stock gears and the installer didn't have to change any shims to get the right pattern. In fact the install was so easy he charged me $50.00 less then his original quote which I promptly spent on cases of beer for him and the shop...... I also used Red Line 80w140 per the recommendation of the shop where I purchased the gears (http://www.carolinamustang.com/). This is what I recommend you purchase:

Ford Racing 4.10's (M-4209-G410)

Ford Racing Bearing cap stud kit (M4034-A)

Axle Girdle, aka: shiney hinnie (PM me if you don't want to spend the extra money to have some one's name on your rear).

Red Line 80W140 Gear oil (you will not need the friction modifier additive)

Gasket, pinion bearing & the two other differential bearings (your local FLAPS)

You also may need axle bearings and seals depending on the condition of yours.