2022 Jeep Gladiator Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios

Transmission gear ratios

The 2022 Jeep Gladiator offers two robust transmissions to suit various driving preferences and demands: an 8-speed automatic and a 6-speed manual.

8-Speed Automatic Transmission (850RE)

6-Speed Manual Transmission (D478)

Available axle ratios

The 2022 Jeep Gladiator offers a range of axle ratios, allowing owners to optimize their vehicle for different uses, from improved fuel economy to enhanced off-road capability and towing prowess. These ratios are crucial in determining the final drive characteristics of your Gladiator.

How to identify your axle ratio

Knowing your Gladiator's axle ratio is essential for proper maintenance and modifications. There are a few ways to identify this information:

• Door-Jamb RPO Sticker (Mopar/Jeep): For most Mopar vehicles, including the Jeep Gladiator, the RPO (Regular Production Option) sticker is usually located on the driver's side door jamb. Look for a three-digit code that starts with "DM" followed by a number, such as "DM3" for 3.73 or "DM4" for 4.10. These codes correspond directly to the installed axle ratio.
• VIN Decoder: Many online VIN decoders can provide a detailed build sheet for your vehicle, which will list all installed options, including the axle ratio. This is a reliable method if you no longer have the door-jamb sticker or if it's unreadable.
• Axle Tag (less common on newer Jeeps): Older vehicles often have a metal tag bolted to one of the differential cover bolts, which explicitly states the gear ratio. While less common on newer Gladiators, it's worth checking if you can't find the information elsewhere.

Towing vs MPG impact

The axle ratio significantly impacts your vehicle's performance, particularly concerning towing capability and fuel economy:

• Numerically Lower Ratio (e.g., 3.73): A numerically lower ratio means the engine will operate at lower RPMs at a given speed. This generally translates to better fuel economy on the highway. However, it also means less mechanical advantage for towing or accelerating heavy loads. While still capable of towing, it will require the engine to work harder, potentially reducing efficiency when hauling.
• Numerically Higher Ratio (e.g., 4.10): A numerically higher ratio causes the engine to rev higher at a given speed. This provides increased torque multiplication to the wheels, making it ideal for heavy towing, off-road crawling, and quicker acceleration. The downside is typically a reduction in highway fuel economy due to the engine operating at higher RPMs.

For the Jeep Gladiator, the 3.73 axle is a well-balanced choice for everyday driving and moderate towing, offering a good compromise between efficiency and capability. The 4.10 axle, found standard on the Rubicon and Mojave, or as part of the Max Tow Package, is designed for those who prioritize maximum towing capacity, serious off-roading, and superior low-speed control.

Common issues

While the Jeep Gladiator is known for its durability, certain driveline components can experience issues over time, particularly related to the axles and differentials:

• Ring and Pinion Whine: This is often heard as a persistent humming or howling sound that changes with vehicle speed and throttle input. It can indicate improper gear setup, wear, or damage to the ring and pinion gears within the differential. Proper break-in procedures are crucial to prevent this after a gear swap.
• Carrier Bearing Wear: The carrier bearings support the differential carrier and can wear out over time, leading to a rumbling or vibrating noise, especially noticeable at certain speeds. Neglecting this can lead to further damage to the differential.
• Limited-Slip Clutch Wear: For Gladiators equipped with a limited-slip differential, the clutch packs can wear out. This can result in a loss of limited-slip function, manifest as uneven power delivery to the wheels under slippery conditions, or a chattering noise during turns.
• U-Joint or Driveshaft Issues: Vibrations and clunking noises can sometimes be attributed to worn universal joints (U-joints) in the driveshafts or an unbalanced driveshaft. These components are under significant stress, especially in off-road conditions or during heavy towing.

Regular inspection and maintenance of your Gladiator's driveline components are key to preventing these issues and ensuring reliable performance.

Find a driveline shop on Repairius.