7.5-open to LS

[longbedGTs]

Hi all, I've gathered bits of info from quite a few threads and want to make sure everything is right before I go looking for parts. The truck is an 86 Ranger with 3.45 open differential. Info I have so far: 28 spline, can reuse spider gears but not side gears, axle length is the same between open/LS, current ring gear will bolt to a LS unit, 7.5 LSD unit from any model Ford will work. Sound about right?

I don't think I could even get out of my driveway if there were a moderate snowfall(yes it snows in Texas ). We just got 7 inches and I got stuck in my yard twice.

 

[Dirtman]

I just bought a powertrax lock right for my 7.5. I've yet to install it but it was only 350 and "supposedly" just replaces the spider gears so no need to mess with re-setting the backlash or any of that crap. I plan on trying to install it this weekend.

But to my knowledge you are right, any factory 7.5" LS should fit.

 

[adsm08]

Any 7.5 carrier will fit. Width doesn't matter.

If you get a used one grab the shims to either side and keep it all in order from left to right.

Don't mix and match spider/side gears. Just like anything else that gets a wear pattern to it they get mated after a while, so either grab a whole used unit and use all the gears, or get new carrier and new sides. Then you could reuse your spiders.

If installing a used carrier with it's original shims your back lash should be very close, but still needs checked. If getting a new carrier Randy's Ring and Pinion sells these "build a shim" kits, I highly recommend them. I don't do a lot of rear end work, but I love those build a shim kits, because if you can math you can make the shim you need very easy.

 

[sgtsandman]

I don't know what engine you have but changing from 3.45 to 4.10 made a world of difference for my 1998 with a 2.5 Lima engine. Gas mileage didn't change a bit and it had so much more get up and go. The 3.45 gearing was just too tall for that engine.

 

[longbedGTs]

It's the 2.3 Diesel engine and a lower geared rear would certainly help. It'd probably be perfect with 3.73. I need to get some parts from the local salvage yard anyway, so I'll check for a good 3.73 LS rear. I think 4.10 would be too low, but might be worth getting if they have one. Thanks for the help!