Differential Ratios?

[jaceaceatkins]

Hello all.

I am new to Bongo ownership and I have to say so far so good. What a wonderful little machine!
I have for many many years been an air cooled VW camper owner but I wanted better comfort and more importantly a heater! and the Mazda just looked like a brilliant little van.

I do however have a question that you long term Bongo owners / experts may be able to help me with?

The car I have is a 2.5TD rear wheel drive 5 speed manual. As you all know the motor has fantastic power but I have noticed that the engine speed seems very high in relation to road speed. Typically 60mph in 5th gear has the engine working at 3000+ rpm (which I consider high for a diesel engine). In conjunction with this the 1st gear seems very short and not really required as pull away in 2nd is absolutely fine.

What I was wondering (and where I need your guys help) is what is the standard rwd differential ratio? I have seen 4.4:1 quoted and I am wondering if Mazda made any other ratios (for either the 4wd or V6 Bongos) or maybe the Ranger or even the B2000 / B2200 pick up?

If the standard ratio is around 4.4:1 I think I would like to replace that with a 3.73:1 or a 3.42:1 but does such a diff exist in a standard form?

It would make for a much more relaxed cruising speed as the engine speed would drop down to perhaps 2200 rpm and the gearbox would be fine as the standard ratios would mean the short 1st would then be perfect.

Have any of you done such a thing?

any advise would be gratefully received.

Thanks.

Jason.

[Northern Bongolow]

i have the 4wd drive manual, and my mrs has the standard auto, both diesels.
the manual is noticeably shorter on the gearing, and revs nearly 500 revs higher at the same road top speed,(60-70mph). ive often found that its not a motorway banger, but, it does go in top gear when i want it too, (at 30mph) so what it looses on the motorway it gains round town. as mine spends most of the time round my hilly northern town the manual is ideal. the auto is much better at the longer flatter more relaxed run.
not sure if this is the diff, or the gearbox.

horses for courses really.

ps.
didnt know they did a manual 2 wheel drive.maybe thats a clue.