fischerrc4, I like the dimple bushings too, they are steel backed and seem to press in a little more securely. That said, I am very reluctant to modify the basic structure or dimensions of the original parts so over-boring the comp pinion holes isn't something I would normally do. Trying to maintain the original spec wherever I can so someone working on them later won't have a difficult time at it. None of our supplier provide the OEM dimple bushings for that area but instead use all bronze bushings throughout. So thats what we use now too. My next photos for this show and tell will be the fitting and line reaming of the bushings in question.
Snocat Ops, great news, I haven't heard of or seen 4.47 R&P gears before Something to consider is that the Drop Box gears provide extra steering leverage over straight axle (non-drop box like Super Imp) so it follows that the 2.44 DB's have more steering leverage than the 1.83 DB's do. Theoretically the combo of your 4.47 R&P with the commonly available 2.44 DB's would have both speed and ease of steering. That is with all other things being equal i.e; 12 tooth sprocket and same track width and style etc. Its much easier though, to change DB gears than to change the R&P
Here What I get calculating from the chart. Someone should check my math though.
For 3000 RPM engine speed.
4.47/R&P, 2.44/DB, total ratio/10.91, axle rpm/275, speed/12.5 mph
4.47/R&P, 1.83/DB, total ratio/8.18, axle rpm/301, speed/16.68mph
Also keep in mind that the higher ratios may have you driving the auto trans in first gear for long periods of time when climbing in the deep stuff.
-Pat