[Abomb819]

Hey all. Quick question, and what better place to find the answer than here right?

I'm thinking about changing the gears in my mustang from stock to 3.73 in the rear. I have heard that you see a very noticeable difference off the line and in overall quickness. However i have also been told that i can not just go and change the gears without reworking the whole rear end; i.e. new axle etc. Does anyone know from personal experience or with reliable knowledge what is the best course of action?

Thank you in advance for any input or answers.

[stlwagon]

You can just swap the ring and pinion but many here have also opted to swap the carrier to a limited slip Ford Traklok at the same time to kill two birds with one stone.

[Black05Pony]

I'm in the same boat as you, just a little further ahead.

You can swap just the gears without doing anything to the rear end, but you're really going to want some kind of limited slip in there so supply both wheels with traction. Ford trac-loc, as stlwagon said, is a popular choice.

The general consensus says to go with Ford Racing gears if you're going to do it. Other less expensive brands like Yukon, Motive, etc. will work, but are not recommended simply because they're cheaper.

Make sure you find a good shop with experience and who know what they're doing. A bad gear job can ruin your new gears, your new trac-loc, your new bearings and your rear end as well. A bad gear job can also result in howling and whining coming from the rear end.

Gears are something that you definitely want a professional to do.