Can someone explain what a 'climbing gear' is in my ford transmission?

(2010-10-30 14:05:04) 1. Hans Says: Just bought a 1982 E-Series 4WD with a 460, and the transmission apparently has a 'climbing gear'. Can anyone explain this in a little more detail? I'm curious and have never heard of it, but am assuming its a high ratio gear for hill climbing. Thanks.2. rick29148 Says: Also called a Granny Low.. A sub-first gear that's really low.... How low is it ?? Glad you asked...It's SO low that it allows you to get the engine up into it's power band while crawling along at 2 or 3 mph.3. k1sghost Says: I had a 79 F350 flat bed with a 4 speed Borg Warner with a "Climbing Gear" It topped out at around 5mph and you couldn't shift out of it so you had to start in second. The only reason to use a super lower first is if you're stopped on a steep grade, or if you're trying to tow a house. Tag: Can someone explain what a 'climbing gear' is in my ford transmission?