DIFFs/Axles to be more road usable and give it longer legs?

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HavenDTS
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Hi I have a newly purchased G Wagen 1988 SWB 230GE Auto - and I have to admit I was a G Wagen Virgin until this week.........

I was hoping that someone can tell me in layman terms what I must do to update/upgrade the DIFFs/Axles to be more road usable and give it longer legs? 

Are there parts numbers I can source that will do this within the existing axles or is there an alternative to change or buy replacement axles?

I wanted to go down the axle/diff route first while I still have funds and allow me an easier drive whilst I decide what I want to do in the future on options for the engine/gearbox.

All help is appreciated.

Russ280
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Re: DIFFs/Axles to be more road usable and give it longer ...

It's certainly possible to change the diff's some have done so. Not cheap as you'd expect they will be MB dealer parts.
Sorry I can't help you with part numbers.
Try googling 4x4abc plenty of technical info there.
A quick / cheap way of getting longer gearing is to fit oversize wheels and tyres. Downside being torque and breaking will suffer.
 

Russ280
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Re: DIFFs/Axles to be more road usable and give it longer ...

Another option is to fit a modern electronically controlled 5 speed auto.

 
You'll need an aftermarket gearbox controller. They are around 800euros.
 
I'm considering this on my 463 with 606 engine. It looks a reasonably easy plug and play install.
bigblock
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Re: DIFFs/Axles to be more road usable and give it longer ...

Have a read through this and see if it gives you any ideas.

 

http://www.gwoa.co.uk/content/faster-engines-more-gears-better-brakes-an...

 

 

montreal
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Re: DIFFs/Axles to be more road usable and give it longer ...

I second the 722.6 5 Speed box option. I've done it and its purring on the motorway. 2400 rpm at 70mph. It was about 3500 with the old 4 speed and screaming its head off trying to cruise at 80mph. It works...

G-Restorations
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Re: DIFFs/Axles to be more road usable and give it longer ...

But Del... Your 350td will have 4.11 to 1 Diffs  not the regular 4.88s 

montreal
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Re: DIFFs/Axles to be more road usable and give it longer ...

I guess I am having some luck then!

It will still be way better than just 4 gears yes. I thought you'd gone awol. G,Do you still own a mobile phone?cheeky