my son and i are building an 85 pickup with a 2LT diesel looking for advice on gear ratio
planing to run 33s and i am thinking 5.29 gears to get the rpms down anyone have any input

 

Generally speaking, 4.88s are for 33"s 5.29's for 35's+...not sure how the diesel transmissions are geared compared to our gassers but my guess is they can't be too far off.

 

Post some pics! Love those.

 

I ran 5:29's with 33's on a 85 toyota pickup 22re W56A. With that ratio I was wound tight going down the freeway at speed. I would think with the bit of extra torque 4:56's or 4;88's at most. 5:29's on 33's is going to suck for the diesel motor if the trans is anywhere close to the gassers.
Currently I have a 85 4runner, fresh rebuild on a 22re, probably 25,000 on the rebuild now so not so fresh, stock 4:10 gears and running 33's. I can turn them fine but want a bit more gear. I plan on eventually going 4:88's and 33's for street use and 35's for wheeling. If I stick with 33's for max size I am going with 4:56's. I like keeping the RMP's down on the highway.