8.8 explorer Leaf spring and axle swap

[cbr600rx7]

Has any one on the forum completed the full swap using the explorer 8.8 rear end along with it's under axle leaf spring set up on there ranger.

From what I understand from online research is this will drop the rear end about about 4 inches. But I am curious to know how this set up rides and handles with the stiffer explorer springs in a under axle configuration.

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

I haven't done it, but lots have. Check the lowering forum and the tech articles at the top of every page.

Sent from my XT1032 using Tapatalk

 

[cbr600rx7]

I have done some digging on it and the physical swap is well established. It's the after effects that are not very clear. Especially as far as how it rides.

 

[chvlfrk]

>>>>

I have done some digging on it and the physical swap is well established. It's the after effects that are not very clear. Especially as far as how it rides.

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I've done it with Ranger springs and more on my Green 94, ride didn't change any & yes it gets you around 4" of drop.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

I converted mine to spring over axle but the Explorer springs made the ride much stiffer.

I actually replaced the Explorer springs with a pair of low mile 2009 scab Ranger springs last fall and it now rides much nicer.

 

[JoshT]

Using the Explorer axle and springs in the spring under configuration gets you closer to a two inch drop, maybe three inch considering the added diameter of the axle tube.

The Explorer's leaf is about two inches taller than the Ranger leaf pack. It's a fairly common swap to replace a Rangers leaf pack and lift blocks with an Explorer leaf pack.

For a 4" drop you'd be better off using the Ranger leaf pack with the Explorer axle in leaf under configuration and add a lift shackle to raise it back up a little off necessary.

Of course those numbers could be plus or minus an inch depending on how much the leaf pack in has sagged.

FWIW I have an '86 in my yard right now that has the Explorer axle and leafs in spring under configuration. It is weight on wheels, but far from complete. Also have a 99 4wd that has expert leafs substituted for the stock leafs and lift blocks.

 

[proz07]

I currently am running a shortened 98 explorer 8.8 w/ springs on my 88 ranger. I cant comment on the stiffness compared to stock as Mine was shot so i went straight into the swap. It is rougher I'm sure but i also upgraded the shocks and did lowering springs up front so that adds to the harshness. Overall i cant imagine you noticing a "rough" rear end if you use stock front springs honestly. I think a majority of my stiffness came from running 17" rims on 50 profile tires. I wish i didnt lose my starting fender height measurements but it currently sits 27 1/4" at the fenders sitting on 245/50/17R. Id estimate about 3" of drop but my old 88 7.5 was wore the F out so if yours was good maybe 4".

Thats about all i can provide on that.

z

 

[cbr600rx7]

So I found a FX4 ranger rear out of a 2001 with 4.10 gears LSD and 10 inch drum brakes. Since this is a ranger rear end I should just be able to basicly bolt it and and go correct?