Weird Pricing on Electronic Locking Axles

[Smitdog]

So I'm in the process of ordering a Limited 4x4 3.5EB...

In looking at many of the window stickers on the dealer lot today, they all had the 3.73 Electronic Locking Axle and at "No Charge" (these were Platinum and Limited 3.5PB vehicles).

In going through the Build & Price for a Limited (using Costco, but assuming all are the same), here are the selections:

• 3.31 Axle comes standard - No charge
• 3.31 Electronic Locking Axle - $420 (msrp)
• 3.55 Electronic Locking Axle - $470 (msrp)
• 3.73 Electronic Locking Axle - No charge

Presuming that the electronic locking is a beneficial / valuable option to have, and since for whatever reason the 3.73 version is "no charge", it makes sense I guess that all these vehicles on the lot were configured that way.

My questions are:

1. If it costs more for the 3.31 and 3.55 ELA, why is the 3.73 ELA at "no charge"?

2. I know the higher ratios (3.55/3.73) will have more "pull" (perceived torque) off the line, and the 3.31 will give you ever so slightly better gas mileage. So if I'm deciding to go with an ELA, seems the added cost of $420 for the 3.31 (better mileage) ELA will negate any $ fuel savings, and I should just go with the 3.73 axle.

Thoughts?

Thanks...

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[rucus0101]

The 3.73 was likely no charge because it was a max-tow 5.0 which includes the 3.73 in the price. If you are going to tow get the highest numerical axle you can get with your individual config. A 3.5EB can typically only be had with the 3.55(unless you get the HDPP), and a 5.0/2.7 can be had with the 3.73. If you are not going to tow then you may still want a locker if you are worried about getting stuck but I wouldn't worry about the ratio as much.

 

[Smitdog]

The 3.73 was likely no charge because it was a max-tow 5.0 which includes the 3.73 in the price. If you are going to tow get the highest numerical axle you can get with your individual config. A 3.5EB can typically only be had with the 3.55(unless you get the HDPP), and a 5.0/2.7 can be had with the 3.73. If you are not going to tow then you may still want a locker if you are worried about getting stuck but I wouldn't worry about the ratio as much.

FWIW, the no charge 3.73 lockers were on 3.5PB vehicles. And you are right, dealer told me 3.55 was most I could go with a 3.5EB.

I do tow occasionally (7x14 dual-axle enclosed, 21' ski boat), and drive in snow conditions, so am going with a locker.

Thanks for the info.

 

[rucus0101]

FWIW, the no charge 3.73 lockers were on 3.5PB vehicles. And you are right, dealer told me 3.55 was most I could go with a 3.5EB.

I do tow occasionally (7x14 dual-axle enclosed, 21' ski boat), and drive in snow conditions, so am going with a locker.

Thanks for the info.

Make sure you pay attention to payload if you tow. It can vary widely on these trucks

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