I was taught to turn the wheel 10x, count the pinion rotations, then divide that total by 10. More accurate, especially when dealing with with common diffs that have near similar ratios.
8600 GVW is basically a 3/4 ton with a 1 ton's running gear.
That's a 'TRUCK!' Built to carry/haul serious truck stuff.
Suspension-wise, everything about them is bigger.
Replacing that rear end you have now with a 10 bolt would be like using a plastic kiddie hammer on a job that requires a 10 lb. sledge.
10 bolt's have a problem just living under 1/2 ton's. Especially when equipped with a Gov-Lock.
Brakes are basic minimum standard. For a 1/2 ton. All that extra weight of the 8600 GVW suspension and those brakes will be begging for mercy.
I've had three 8600 GVW square bodies. They rode better with a load. Empty, the ride could be somewhat harsh.
Mileage? Empty = 10-11 MPG.'s. With an 8' camper? Towing a 21' speed boat? 9-10 MPG.'s.
The last one sent me to the chiropractor. Hit a bump the right way & threw my back out.
Sis wouldn't ride in any of them. Said they made her boobs hurt.
4.10's are a pretty standard ratio in the 14B.'s.
The reason Full Float is better than a Semi-Float.
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Semi-Float.
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Full Float.
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