1985 rear end

[maxduke]

I have 1985 ranger that i am using to set a rat rod on,what i am wanting to do is change the rear end out it just has the standard rear end now.When i take off only one wheel will spend,what i am wanting is like posi but do not know what to use,is there an easy swap if so could someone tell me year make model.(its not a 4w/d)Would like to just drop this one and put in the other one,thanks to all.

 

[adsm08]

So you are looking for limited slip.

As far as I know all years of Rangers had LS as an option and they will all bolt in with, at most, minimal modifications.

If you go to the mid 90s it becomes much more common but going past 91 means you have to change out your drive shaft flange, which isn't hard and is a good time to change u-joints. You just need to get the front flange from a 95 Ranger's rear drive shaft and put it on the rear of yours.

If you go to a 95+ Explorer getting LS becomes more common still, but adds a degree or two of extra work to make the axle work, unless you want 4 inches of drop in the rear. It can also get you rear disc brakes, which is nice. It is also a stronger axle

If you get lucky enough to find an FX4 Level 2 that will get you LS, with the
stronger axle, in bolt-in configuration, you just need to change your rear brake lines because that axle has bigger brakes and those wheel cylinders have different ports.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

Keep in mind as you go newer axles get wider.

You might find this interesting:

http://www.therangerstation.com/stock-ranger-specifications/ford-ranger-rear-axles/

No need to double post.