2016 Freightliner M2 106: Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios
A complete guide to the 2016 Freightliner M2 106 transmission and axle gear ratios, including how to identify your axle ratio and the impact on towing vs. MPG.
AI-generated reference. Always verify torque values, fluid capacities, intervals, and procedures against the manufacturer's service manual or OEM repair information before performing work. Repairius is not liable for damage from acting on this content without verification.
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Transmission gear ratios
| Gear | Eaton Fuller FO-16E310C-LAS Ultrashift | Allison 3000 HS |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | 14.40 | 3.49 |
| 2nd | 10.05 | 1.86 |
| 3rd | 7.21 | 1.41 |
| 4th | 5.25 | 1.00 |
| 5th | 3.76 | 0.75 |
| 6th | 2.70 | 0.65 |
| 7th | 1.95 | - |
| 8th | 1.38 | - |
| 9th | 1.00 | - |
| 10th | 0.78 | - |
| Reverse | 15.06 | 5.03 |
Available axle ratios
| Ratio | Available With | RPO/Axle Code | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.31 | Cummins ISB 6.7L | MRS-17-145 | Fuel economy |
| 3.55 | Cummins ISB 6.7L | MRS-17-145 | Balanced |
| 3.73 | Cummins ISB 6.7L | MRS-17-145 | Balanced |
| 3.91 | Cummins ISB 6.7L | MRS-17-145 | Towing |
| 4.10 | Cummins ISB 6.7L | MRS-17-145 | Towing |
| 4.30 | Cummins ISL 8.9L | MFS-20-143 | Heavy Towing |
| 4.56 | Cummins ISL 8.9L | MFS-20-143 | Heavy Towing |
| 4.78 | Cummins ISL 8.9L | MFS-20-143 | Maximum Towing |
How to identify your axle ratio
There are a few ways to identify the axle ratio on your 2016 Freightliner M2 106:
- VIN Decoder: The most reliable method is to use a VIN decoder. This will give you a complete build sheet for your truck, including the axle ratio.
- Axle Tag: There is a metal tag on the differential housing that will have the axle ratio stamped on it.
- Door Jamb Sticker: While not as common on Freightliner trucks, some may have a sticker on the driver's side door jamb that lists the axle ratio.
Towing vs MPG impact
The axle ratio has a significant impact on both towing performance and fuel economy. A numerically higher axle ratio (e.g., 4.78) will provide more torque to the wheels, which is ideal for towing heavy loads. However, this comes at the cost of fuel economy, as the engine will be running at a higher RPM.
A numerically lower axle ratio (e.g., 3.31) will provide better fuel economy but will not be able to tow as much weight. The best axle ratio for you will depend on how you use your truck. If you do a lot of heavy towing, then a higher axle ratio is the way to go. If you are more concerned with fuel economy, then a lower axle ratio is a better choice.
Common issues
The 2016 Freightliner M2 106 is a reliable truck, but there are a few common issues to be aware of:
- Ring and Pinion Whine: This can be caused by a number of factors, including improper backlash, worn bearings, or a damaged ring and pinion gear set.
- Carrier Bearing Failure: The carrier bearing supports the driveshaft and can fail over time.
- Limited-Slip Clutch Wear: The clutches in the limited-slip differential can wear out over time, which will reduce its effectiveness.
If you are experiencing any of these issues, it is important to have your truck inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.
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More specs for the 2016 Freightliner M2 106
Oil Capacity & Filter
Capacity, weight, filter PN, drain plug torque, change interval.
Fluid Type Specs
Engine oil, coolant, ATF, diff, brake, PS, DEF — with OEM spec numbers.
Coolant Capacity & Type
Total system capacity, OEM coolant spec, flush interval, bleed tips.
Transmission Fluid & Service
Trans model, fluid spec, capacity, filter PN, service interval.
Torque Specifications
Lug nuts, drain plug, caliper, axle nut, plug, key fasteners.
Brake Pad & Rotor Specs
Pad PNs, rotor size, min thickness, caliper torque.
Tire Size & Pressure
OEM size, cold psi, bolt pattern, wheel size, TPMS.
Battery Size & Group
Group size, CCA, AGM/flooded, dimensions, reset note.
A/C Refrigerant & Oil
R-134a or R-1234yf, charge oz, PAG oil spec.
Bulb Sizes (Headlight, Tail, Fog)
Headlight, fog, tail, turn, reverse, interior.
Factory Maintenance Schedule
Service intervals by mileage, severe-duty notes, known issues.
Towing Capacity & Payload
Max tow, payload, GVWR/GCWR, hitch class by trim.
Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage
Fuse box locations, layout, amps, and what each fuse controls.
Serpentine Belt Routing & Length
Belt routing, length, rib count, OEM + aftermarket PNs.
Wheel Alignment Specifications
Camber, caster, toe ranges (front & rear), adjustability notes.
Paint Color Codes
All factory colors with paint codes, sticker location, touch-up tips.
Wiper Blade Sizes
Driver/passenger/rear blade size, attachment, OEM + cross-refs.
Spark Plug Type & Gap
Plug PN, gap, torque, interval by engine.
Key Fob Programming
DIY programming steps, FCC ID, fob PN, battery, transponder.
Same spec — other model years
Maintenance & repair guides
2016 Freightliner M2 106 Maintenance Schedule →
Available maintenance guidance; confirm the manufacturer schedule.
Repair planning references →
Plan the scope of work; detailed procedures need configuration-matched evidence.
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