I suggest you strive for a 10-ish first gear final drive ratio. Mine is 9.09. My first gear is 2.56 x 3.55 rear = 9.088. I run an OEM height tire: 26.4", 225/70R14 (F70x14). A shorter or taller tire will effect the ratio. My plan is to switch to a 4.11 (x 2.56) giving me a 10.52 final drive. IMO the ratio you want is highly dependent on your traction or desire for it. I have no desire for it. I just like to smoke 'em. If you have taller and/or sticky tires you'll want a 10+ ratio. If you run OEM size or shorter tires a 9 ratio is just fine. I'm assuming you also have a Safe-T-Track rear or equivalent. Why worry about this with an open diff? Also consider the MPH you drive. I rarely drive on roads with 50+ speed limits. Since I drive 45 or less a 4.11 rear will be no big deal. An Autogear transmission can be built in any configuration. I don't recommend a 2.98 first gear. While this may help with launches, you'll end up with a really W I D E ratio transmission. That'll suck big time.