I have found (without overdrive) 3.42 gears are a pretty good ratio. Chris Lucas
www.73-87chevytrucks.com
www.captkaoscustoms.com
Project Su
Jimmy 2WD Project
I had 3.73:1 and 28" tire. got 12.14mpg
Went to 3.73:1 and 26" tire. got 13.4mpg
(makes it like 4:02:1)
I ran my truck harder with the shorter tires.
Plus was turning near 3000rpm going to different towns.
For some reason I got better mileage.
this is with a 3 speed and a mildly modded 357SB.
I'm even pretty sure I got worse mileage with my stock 305 and 3.08:1 rear gears.
my motor doesn't mind spinning higher revs. The low gearing makes my engine think my truck is lighter.
No acceleration difference 3.73:1 vs 4.02:1
3.73:1 lays 5 foot black marks off the line.
4.02:1 lays 50 foot black marks off the line.
had a 305
have a 357
want a Big Block