2010 Yukon Gear Axle Options

[Dougw]

Just purchased a used 2010 Yukon 4wd with 3.08 gears. I used to own a 2003 Suburban 2500 4wd with 8.1 litre and 3.73 gears. I am finding the Yukon much more sluggish compared to my old Suburban. I would like to have a little more power from a start and for pulling a 3000 - 5000 pound trailer on weekends. Want to know the pros or cons of changing to a 3.42 versus 3.73 gears....or will I even notice much difference after spending $ 1500 - 2000 to change the gears?
I drive 40000 - 45000 miles a year of which 15% would be towing - so I don't want to increase my fuel mileage any more than necessary for the other 85% of normal driving.
Which is the best gear choice 3.42 or 3.73 or keep the 3.08's.

 

[b4z]

3.42s will give decent mileage. 3.73s less so.
With all the driving you do I would tell you to keep the 3.08s.

 

[Donnie Yukonie]

I would go for the 3.42s personally if you tow at all , But to be honest is it worth the money to swap both gears out…. ehh I don't know

 

[Dougw]

3.42s will give decent mileage. 3.73s less so.
With all the driving you do I would tell you to keep the 3.08s.

Tough decision to figure to change the gears or not. My brothers Z71 Suburban with 3.73s gets 14 mpg average while my Yukon with 3.08s is getting 17-18 mpg. Take my 40000 -45000 miles a year that I drive and that equals about $ 2000 extra cost for fuel in 1 year to go to 3.73s. I would assume 3.42s would cost about 1/2 of that - say $ 1000.00 per year of added fuel consumption.

Not sure if the 3.42's are easier on the engine and transmission generating less stress....or do you look at it that the engine is revving higher so in fact you are putting more wear and tear on the engine turning higher revs for the life of the vehicle?