1989 rear end to newer

[micah purgahn]

Iv got a 1989 2x4 ranger 7.5 rear, I’m having trouble finding this generation axel in a yard
What Newer years can I swap in without much trouble. 7.5 or 8.8

 

[RonD]

A Ranger or Mazda B-series 7.5" or 8.8" will bolt in, springs, shocks and driveshaft are the same
1983 to 2009

The 1993-2009 are 1" wider at the wheels on each side, noticeable but not that much

2010/11 will also fit(bolt-in) but have rear disc brakes, nice option but there is some brake line and E-brake conversion needed

 

[Demose]

If true, saved!

 

[Demose]

A Ranger or Mazda B-series 7.5" or 8.8" will bolt in, springs, shocks and driveshaft are the same
1983 to 2009

The 1993-2009 are 1" wider at the wheels on each side, noticeable but not that much

2010/11 will also fit(bolt-in) but have rear disc brakes, nice option but there is some brake line and E-brake conversion needed

Should I stay with 7.7 in '89 4x4? I see advice to replace with 8.8.

 

[Demose]

Should I stay with 7.7 in '89 4x4? I see advice to replace with 8.8.

7.5. Sorry

 

[RonD]

Strength is about the same, axle rods are the same diameter, both are rated with the same load carrying weight

If engine was making more than 200HP then 8.8" would be best, under that and whats available at best price is "best"

Driving-wise you wouldn't notice any difference between the two

A 4.10 ratio will give you better "off the line" performance, 3.73 better MPG
If you want to run larger tires, 30+ inch diameter then 8.8" 4.10 is better

 

[micah purgahn]

Thanks a bunch!

 

[scotts90ranger]

In '89 the driveline yoke changed, I just don't remember if it was in '89 or in the middle of the year like Ford did... Anyway, the only difference is a yoke directly on the rear axle for the U joint on the older ones I think and they switched to the flat flange with two bolt patterns on the newer ones. If you want to be safe grab the U joint from the drive shaft from the replacement axle so you don't have to pull the flange off of the axle