Gear Ratio Feedback

I am to the point of addressing my mis matched gear ratios, and was looking for some insight on which route to take. 1968 CJ5 V6 T14 D18 Warn OD. I have the stock D27 front with 4.88, and the stock rear D44 with rebuilt 4.27. PO had intentions of redoing the front with 4.27.

Should I redo the front with 4.27, or redo the rear with 4.88. No leaks in the front, the rear diff cover leaks. I am leaning towards putting 4.88 back in the rear because right now with the 4.27 1st gear is not low enough for me at all. With the OD, highway speeds of 75+ are not a problem. Would 4.88 decrease this much? Is there such a thing as an Underdrive for my set up?

Perhaps my issue is my current 4x4 1977 GMC w/SM465 is my ideal crawl ratio.

What would you do in my situation? Thanks!

 

parts and availability - 4.88s hard to find for D27 anymore
4.27s more abundant if needed

Jeepability - I'd go with the 4.88s, but then I'm biased running 5.38s

glad I could help

 

I have 4:88's with an OD and would not change it for anything, best of both worlds. But like stated above the D27 4:88's are getting harder to find. I could not find any manufacturer's that sell them new.

 

I must’ve missed it, what’s your tire size?
If you plan to run 33” tires, 4.88’s with a V6 is about right.

 

4.88s w/ an OD is best IMO. They shouldn't be hard to find for a D44.

 

How about upgrading the front to a 4.27 gear Dana 30?

 

I have a 3 speed and 4.88's with 31's-there's times I'd like a lower ratio. I would definately not go with the 4.27 ratio if you plan any serious off road use.