I have 83 CJ (never driven yet, just bought). AMC20 tube is bent. So far no luck finding a re-tube shop.

D30 is 2.72 AMC20 is 2.73 Lucky enough (not) to get the lowest made.

Likely going to a Ford 9" as overall $$ will put me in a better end position. Problem is, what available ratios can I match between D30 and Ford. To do the Ford I'll have to change the front to match.

Apparently D30 next ratios are 3.31 3.54 3.73 I intend this to be a trail / road vehicle. Mostly 2 tracking and some weekend sand dunes.

Thanks Steve.

It all depends on what tires you plan to run. Do you have any ideas???

Do 4.88s or you'll wish you did.

Buncha 9" er's will have a 3.55 ratio.

At our local pick n' pull, seems like all the tags were the same.

All 5 I came arcoss were 3.55........just like the one I bought from a guy elsewhere.

I guess in the half-tons it was a compromise for mileage :shaking:

It has 31's now. I don't see running 34's. I plan to flat tow and drive on the highway. I am thinking I'll just stay with the 31's.

I didn't think I'd want to get into 4+ ratios because I want fuel too. Remember this won't be stickly off road. steve

If you are in Norcal I have a widetrack CJ amc 20 with your ratio. I will make you a smokin deal if interested...

anything you can get for the 30 you can get close enough for the 9"

So the 4.88s would be a terrible idea. Personally I would go with 3.73s with 31 inch tires.

So the 4.88s would be a terrible idea. Personally I would go with 3.73s with 31 inch tires.
Mine is a 84 and I also had the 2.73 gears.
If lady luk comes your way you'll find a D44 out of a CJ 86.
Anytime soon you'll find that doing the SOA is so easy that you'll want the 33's.
So, match them at 4.10, and will be ready to have 33's, you can stay with 31's. And is nice enough for the highway that is a factory ratio for my Ram 2500.
Check this table and make your mix
http://www.4lo.com/calc/geartable.htm