TheDirtman

Off road the lower the gearing the better, nobody will dispute that. What everyone is talking about is on road performance, mainly the highway which will run at a high RPM and drink the fuel. If you have the 3.8 with the auto then 5.13-5.38 would be a good match with true 35" tires. Most 35" tires are around 34" and with the 3.6 auto you will get better all around performance and fuel economy with 4.56-4.88 gears. Terrain will also have an impact as flatlands at sea level don't need as much gearing as running a mile up in the mountains. Your jeep will be fine and the performance around town and on the trails will be great.

Mike H.

I drive my rig to and from the trails (1 to 2 hours each way), and it was my daily driver (130 miles a day, 99% of that freeway and interstate, 75mph) for over a year. I was fortunate to receive a company truck, otherwise it would still be my daily driver.
Maybe we wheel different terrain, or have different pucker factors, or both.
At the end of the day, I guess there is no perfect answer that is suitable to all rigs/owners/terrain as evidenced by our difference of opinion.
It's good that we all share our experiences.

Mwsubway

I love the 5.38 gears! Great on trail and not all that bad on road either! About 3100 rpm at 70mph but when I get the 37s on should be just right!!

jimcantu

Great news! Glad you like the. How's it been since you've had them for a few days? Are you still loving it? What kind of MPG are you getting with that setup?

Cats&Jeeps

Actually have had the 538's for almost 5 years... Would never go back... Went from 373 to 488 then finally the 538's. Gas mileage with 285's around 15-16mpg depending on speed...60-65 was best, 70-75 was lower.

Mwsubway

love the setup! Won't go back!!