What choices do I have to obtain higher gear ratios for the Automatic (J20A, 4.875 diffs) 2000 model Grand Vitara? All options considered..

I am aware of the 5.125 differential ratios from the manual 1.6L models and some other Suzuki's, but I cannot find them at all in my country, here in Trinidad. I'm now forced to find alternative feasible options to getting more torque for trail use. Shipping in a banjo and front differential is out of the question because of price.

Are there any aftermarket ring and pinion gears that can work in my stock differential system?

Are there any alternative ways to achieve better gearing other than looking at the differentials and the automatic transmission.. I like the automatic for offroading!

I had spoken to a transmission mechanic and he said that he would be able to change the 1st and 2nd gears in my Automatic transmission to higher ratios, but 3rd and 4th will remain the same. I didn't like the idea of having a big gap between 2nd and 3rd though..

Something like this would be ideal!

http://tr.4xfourart.com/4xfourarten/urunic.php?id=65

but I never saw any reviews for them..

That's an interesting site, but, something caught my eye as I was watching the "shop window" scroll past - the Grand Vitara suspension kit pictured does not fit the Grand Vitara shown, or any other Grand Vitara for that matter.

Look at the rear suspension links shown, do you see a Y shaped "wishbone"?  That's the type of rear upper link that was used on the SE & SV series chassis, but not on the SQ series.  Whoever put the website together took the time to take pictures of an SQ series vehicle on a ramp showing the articulation, but not one of the suspension kit that is being sold - oversight?  Deliberate omission?

I emailed them yesterday concerning the ring and pinion set.. Still awaiting a reply..

What is the spline count on the 4.86 Grand Vitara and will that make a difference when buying Ring and Pinion gears?

I got a reply from the above company and they said the ring and pinion gears will work in my vehicle without any problems. I need to be 100% certain before buying though..

Wish I knew on the spline, but I dont' know much about the 2K era Vitara's.

The spline shouldn't matter, but the gears will need to be setup by a qualified technician.