Motorway gearing

[stevew]

Hi All,
My '97 190 LWB TD is ex-police and has a 1:5.14 back axle. I assume this was great for rushing between pubs at kicking out time collecting beered up youths . However it's not too good for long motorway journeys. The engine really doesn't like to run over 3000 rpm (although it will) it gets very loud! This is only 62.5mph though.
What is the best way to increase the gearing?
Fit a different axle? How much is that likely to cost? What ratio do you recommend?
A different gearbox? Is that even possible? A nice six speed one
Overdrive?
As always all help or suggsstions are greatly appreciated,
Steve

[madmark]

steve you need to fit another diff or axle .4.63 that is the best you will get with the 6 stud! probly easyer to get the hole axle changed!

[stevew]

Thanks Mark,
Any ideas where I can get one? There is a guy selling them on ebay all the time they seem a bit pricey and I'm not sure what condition the're in.
I assume that I would have to recalibrate the speedo for the new ratio, is that a difficult job?
What about just fitting a new crown wheel and pinion? These guys:
http://www.netcomuk.co.uk/~kamdiffs/transit.html
will supply 4.56 and 4.1 off the shelf and anything else to order. I see that Haynes put this job in the 'impossible to do at home so don't even try' cattergory so maybe it's not on.
Steve

[Luke]

4.1:1 mabe the 5 stud axle!!! im not sure!!