Hi All,
My truck is a stock to the filter 2004 ECSB 1500 4x4 5.3 3.73. Tires are 265/70R17. I don't have many plans for modding, but would like to eliminate or at least improve some of the dead spots while accelerating. I absolutely love this truck, but feel like the truck is just a little too slow.

I DO NOT want to do any cam changes or add longtubes.

Considering doing a blackbear autocal tune and 4.10 gears. I've been quoted $1800 for the gear swap parts and labor. Possibly adding a cat back and cai as well before the tune.

It seems like the tune will be worth it no matter what I decide.

What do you guys think? This is just my dd and my commute is about 11 miles one way. Any input is appreciated!

 

I'd go with someone other than blackbear but that's just me.

Gear swap will help it some for sure and add a mild tune because it's stock and you'll have a nicer driving truck.

 

I think it wouldn't be that big of a difference going that close. I went from 3:42 to 3:73 on a Camaro and was disappointed.

 

Part of me thinks $1800 could be a nice backyard patio for my house!

Will the live tune make enough of a difference? I hear of people absolutely raving about them. Just want to liven up the truck without being emissions illegal or spending a fortune

 

Since you don't commute far, I would go with 4.56s if you are going to do it. You'll notice the difference.

 

1800 is too much for a gear swap IMO. 3.73 to 4.10 isn't a big change. I saw zero results from tht swap

 

2383 Rpm at 70 mph doesn't sound so bad. I guess it's 4.56s or nothing at all. That would definitely wake it up!

 

3.42s to 4.11s was a nice jump, even with my tired 4.8 between the frame rails.

 

I went 3.73 with stock tires to 4.10 with 33s and a tune

The tire diameter increase negated the gearing change, but it didnt make the truck slower!

I however am again regearing and going for 4.56 as well.

My vote is 4.56 and find a new gear shop. You can buy 6 sets of gears and the tools to do this for 1800. Or buy a built rearend with 4.56 in it for 1800.

Tune is needed for speedo recal, so if youre gonna do it live, have them change all the goods. Line pressure, shift mph, speedo cal, lean it out up top, add a few degrees, etc etc

 

Guys -

He's 4wd.

$1800 still sounds high for the front and rear diffs. I've seen about $1200 on average for a front/rear gear swap.