2002 Rear Differential Replacement

[Erod459]

hello,

my rear differential is shot! I need to find a replacement part that fits but have no idea if there are any compatible parts I can be 100% confident in purchasing.

someone, please help.

Vehicle:
2002 Ranger FX4 4.0L engine 4X4

Part:
rear differential assembly (TAG#: V305C)

I have searched for this part for weeks with no luck. There are parts from used OEM websites that say other parts are compatible but when I review the part descriptions, there are differences, i.e. the ring gear, break size, and gear ratio.

of course, I wouldn't want to purchase a part that will require additional part replacement to make the rear differential compatible.

Are there other TAG#'s that are identical to the V305C tag?

If anyone has any insight on this, I would greatly appreciate a reply so I can get the part ordered knowing I'm not wasting a costly amount.

best,
E

 

[Dirtman]

Need the door tag, that code is nothing of any use.

But you have a 8.8" 28 spline rear. Any 1998-2009 ranger 8.8 will be a direct bolt on if the gears match. The gearing is on the door tag.

 

[Erod459]

Dirtman, Thank you for the quick reply.

the door Tag Axel code is R7.

 

[Dirtman]

You got yourself a limited slip 8.8" 4.10 ratio rear. Nice axle, but also one of the harder ones to find since they are more desirable.

You need to find a 98-2009 4.0 truck (2wd or 4wd doesn't matter but limited slip was much more common in 4wd trucks) and then look for the 4.10 L/S option.

 

[RonD]

Axle codes seen here: https://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/axle_codes.shtml

R7 = 4.10 Limited Slip(L/S), 8.8"


Try: https://www.car-part.com/

Year 2002
Model Ford Ranger
Part: Axle Assy Rear (w. Housing)

Enter your area and zipcode/postal code

Click search

THEN it will ask the axle you want

V305C tag will show up but that number doesn't really matter
You want an 8.8" ring gear, 10" brakes, 4.10 ratio

As said by Dirtman 1993 to 2009 will just bolt in

Then click search and it will show whats available around your area

L/S, limited slip would be better but not required for the swap
Axle code 97 is the OPEN version of your axle
V305C doesn't means its L/S, just FYI
R7 does

As shown in the axle code link above just below the V305C on that tag should be 4.L.10 that means axle is L/S 4.10 ratio
4...10 means its NOT L/S but is 4.10 ratio

 

[Erod459]

That's what I've been told. very hesitant to purchase a part if not of equal value.

I have this part pulled up on eBay but does not state L/S or not. Can I assume all 4.10 ratio axels are off a 4.0 truck?

99-09 Ford Ranger Rear Axle Assembly 4.10 Ratio 78k OEM LKQ | eBay

Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for 99-09 Ford Ranger Rear Axle Assembly 4.10 Ratio 78k OEM LKQ at the best online prices at eBay! Free shipping for many products!

www.ebay.com

 

[Dirtman]

Can I assume all 4.10 ratio axels are off a 4.0 truck?

No, 4.10 ratios were common in both the 7.5" and 8.8" axles used in rangers. 4.10 was not specific to any engine configuration. You need the 8.8" 4.10.

Also the axle in that picture is not from a ranger so I have no idea what they are selling... And $550 is an absurd price...

 

[fastpakr]

All 2002 FX4's should have the Torsen differential on a 31 spline 8.8.

 

[fastpakr]

Torsen® Traction

torsen.com

 

[Dirtman]

All 2002 FX4's should have the Torsen differential on a 31 spline 8.8.

Thought they were only on LVL 2's?

 

[fastpakr]

Level 2 didn't exist initially. Year one (02) FX4's were badged as Level 2 in 03. I think L1 was the previous off road package?

 

[Dirtman]

• V305C on a 2002 FX4 (with the recalled Torsens)​

So aparently your axle was recalled...

Read through this lol, hey if it was recalled maybe Ford will still replace it for free.

How To Spot A Ford Ranger FX4 31-Spline 8.8-Inch Axle - The Ranger Station

The 2002 FX4, and 2003-2007 Ford Ranger FX4 Level II came with the 31-spline 8.8-inch rear axle and a Torsen limited slip.

www.therangerstation.com

 

[fastpakr]

They were recalled on manual trans FX4's, but presumably that was handled years ago. I can't imagine Ford honoring that now if it was missed.

 

[Erod459]

wow.

Wouldn't know as I purchased used in '18. It's been great with no issues 'til now.

Thanks for the reply Fastpakr and RonD, learning a lot here!

being that I'm going to attempt to replace the axel on my own, it seems like the simelest way to get back on the road without messing with internal parts, such as the replacement differential part.

 

[pjtoledo]

we are a curious bunch, what is wrong with your differential?