Debating the gear/locker questions
current stock JK 2018 Sport S with probably 3.21 gears, 5 spd automatic, 315 mud tires and a 2.5" lift, sporting a full metal cloak belly skid, side step armor, winch bumper and wheel disconnected with stock fenders, makes 15 mpg most normally in fourth gear, about 1750 rpm at 70 when it's in 5th, seems to crawl ok on mostly blue trails ( mid level) the guys are suggesting 4.88 gears and lockers, I'm thinking 4.56 gears and tru locks, D30 in front high pinion, seeking opinions for better crawling, but decent mileage daily driver, thanks

 

Sum dum, I am currently running 35" Nitto's with 4.88's and an automatic. I get very little gear hunting with this combination on the highway flat and level or over hills. It was a head scratching exercise trying to decide between 4.56 and 4.88 and wound up choosing the 4.88's, glad I did and would do it again. This combination does work well offroad, better than on highway, so there is always some compromise. I went with Revolution gear which do not require a specific break-in routine, just put'em in and go for it. Will need to change diff. oil after 300 miles. By the way, you never go wrong with lockers!! although I am running auburn limited slip in front and the stock truetrac in the rear.

 

Sum dum, after posting it hit me that you may have additional cost if just replacing ring and pinion due to the 3,21 carrier. I believe you will need to change the carrier along with R&P if going to either 4.56 or 4.88's. If going to lockers it will not matter unless considering a lunch box locker such as lock-right, then you will need the new carrier also.