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New axles with locker


DirtyDan

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In theory, if I buy a 31 spline Spartan Locker, I can just slide in 31 spline axle shafts with no problem right? I'm relatively new to the axle end of things.
 


scotts90ranger

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No, the 31 spline axles are completely different it's not just the shafts... the bearings are larger as well as the carrier being different...
 
Captain Ledd

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scotts90ranger said:
No, the 31 spline axles are completely different it's not just the shafts... the bearings are larger as well as the carrier being different...
Click to expand...
2nd'd

31 spline shafts will in no way fit into a axle housing designed for 28 spline shafts.

Really though, the 28 spline stuff isn't that bad.
 

bigmark303

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Captain Ledd said:
Really though, the 28 spline stuff isn't that bad.
Click to expand...
Just buy a 28 spline unit. 28 spline can handle the same stuff as the 31 spline in a Ranger application. You would need to be running 40+ inch tires and 300ft-lbs or better to need a 31 spline unit.
 
Mac

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It's been done with custom axles, check JBrowns build in V-8 section. He used the stock Ranger bearings and the 31 spline center section. A 31 spline is 1.208" OD while the Ranger bearing is 1.402" ID allowing the new axles to slide in. I also believe that for all but extreme cases, the 28 spline is good for a lot of HP/torque.
Dave
 
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I have custom 31 spline axles in my Ranger's 8.8" also (Moser).

Doing it over again, I'd just swap in an Explorer 8.8" axle. Not only does the Ex axle with it's bigger bearings have a better GAWR, but it also lets me source a shaft from a junkyard should I ever need one in a pinch.

Also, I believe the OD at the bearing on a 31-spl Ex shaft is 1.625" or something close to that (as said, it's much bigger than a shaft for a Ranger housing).
 

brentmc

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You know anything will fit with a big enough hammer... lol!
 
DangerRanger

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I swapped out a 7.5" for a 8.8" a few years ago without doing enough research. Come to find out it had 28 spline axles in it which are the same as in the 7.5". Stronger middle section, but still have broken axles since(at the spline). Ordered my new Alloy axles yesterday. just a little over $200 for both. That is an option for you. Summit Racing.
 
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