Truck pull

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Zero Hero

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Zane
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1987
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350 ci/ 5.7 L
I got a 1987 c20 with a 350 and a sm465 that I want to put in a truck pull. I just came here to ask what the best way about going this is. If I knew my rear axle ratio it would probably be better but I don’t. But with driving the truck for a good while I know that if I go for a shift in the middle of the pull that long throw will end the pull real quick. I have a friend that got a dodge Cummins 4x4 and he starts in 4th in 4low and does pretty good. With mine only being 2wd what would y’all say is a good starting gear/full pulling gear? L?1?2?3?

Edit: GU6 rear end so 3.42 ( I think )
 
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1987 GMC Jimmy

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Unless the PO changed the ring and pinion, the RPO sticker in the glovebox has a code for the gear ratio. It’ll be GU*.
 

Shorty81

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Sled pull? Shifting in the middle of a pull is a no no. You want to stay in one gear that you can keep your rpms up and carry some ground speed. Sure you want to pull a 2 wheel drive??
 

Zero Hero

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Sled pull? Shifting in the middle of a pull is a no no. You want to stay in one gear that you can keep your rpms up and carry some ground speed. Sure you want to pull a 2 wheel drive??

My local sled pull has a 2wd class that I want to try
 

bucket

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3.42 sucks for pulling. Low gear probably won't get you enough ground speed. 1st gear is probably the best bet I would think.

What kind/size of rear tires will you run?
 

bucket

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Also, @crazy4offroad may have a good idea for optimal gear for a pull.
 

crazy4offroad

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Personally I wouldn't change the rear gear ratio just for a truck pull if I were you. You can probably do better with different size tires. You can get on facebook marketplace and search for "boggers" and probably find at least a pair of 33" swamper boggers cheap. Then when the day comes for the pull buy at least 3 passes. 1st pass try granny gear. If your engine is stock you'll want to keep it around 4k rpm and watch your temp gauge. 2nd run try 1st gear (2nd) and get it up on the rpms fast. Once the power goes away dont even attempt a downshift. The truck will come to a complete stop and you'll just dig holes. Another thing to try would be 3 100lb bags of sand over the rear axle, if they'll allow it. If it's a stock class they may not even allow the boggers. Here's a chart based on 3.42 gears and 33" tires, and tire speed you can expect at 3 different rpms...

You must be registered for see images attach
 

Zero Hero

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Zane
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1987
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Engine Size
350 ci/ 5.7 L
I’m running 265 75R16 maxis buckshot II with some use. Approximately 7-8k miles on them
 

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