Author Topic: Changing Differential Gears For Better Mileage  (Read 4566 times)

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Changing Differential Gears For Better Mileage
« on: September 19, 2003, 10:15:55 »
Has anyone changed the final drive cogs for better mileage? I have in mind a subtle change in an effort to make the car a bit longer legged.
Thinking of commuting in my 230SL Automatic in Southern California.

230SL

Cees Klumper

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Re: Changing Differential Gears For Better Mileage
« Reply #1 on: September 19, 2003, 15:15:47 »
I replaced my 4.08 with a 3.69 rear axle (complete swap - the cost of the cogs and the time to change them out exceeds the cost of a good used complete rear axle) and it resulted in 'longer legs'. However I suspect the effect on the mileage would be quite small. And in your case, changing to a 3.69 would not be worth the trouble. There is the possibility of going lower still, but you would need a sedan rear-end and if you have an automatic, that would for sure make the car pretty sluggish on take-off. I would stick to what you have.

Cees Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic
Cees Klumper
1969 Mercedes 280 SL automatic
1968 Ford Mustang 302 V8 being restored father/son project
1961 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint Coupe 1600
1962 FIAT 1500S OSCA convertible
2014 FIAT 500 Abarth
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Re: Changing Differential Gears For Better Mileage
« Reply #2 on: September 20, 2003, 11:35:42 »
Thanks Cees...After what I've learned here I think I'll keep it as is.


230SL

 

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