8.8 swap

[Byronator]

Hey everyone. I have just a quick question about the 8.8 rear axle from ford rangers... I want to swap my 7.5, 3.73, 9” brakes to at minimum at 7.5, 4.10, 10” brakes. I’d really like to swap in a 8.8. I think I’ve found some online that I could afford. I’ve done a lot of reading on this forum about all the many differences between the different axle spec combinations. I know everything is supposed to bolt up the same as far as the distance for the spring perch and shock mounts. And that the 8.8 has a larger axle tube, so I’d need larger u bolts. I understand that an 8.8 is a larger sized diff (obviously) than the 7.5. Now finally, to my question. Is the “pumpkin” if you will, of the 8.8 longer than the 7.5. In other words, will my current driveshaft on my 7.5 diff work with a 8.8? Would the driveshaft be too long if the 8.8 is bigger? Like where the driveshaft bolts to the flange, is that farther forward on the 8.8 than it is in the 7.5.
Thank you for reading in advance!

 

[sgtsandman]

There is a year range where the axle flange for the drive shaft is different between the 7.5” and 8.8” but I don’t remember what that is. The tech section probably has that information.

As far as the bolt up, everything else will match, including driveshaft length.

As far as swapping from 7.5” to 8.8”, generally there is no realized benefit for most people. The 7.5” has more than enough strength for what the average Ranger will put it through.

 

[scotts90ranger]

The flange change is '89 so not an issue. The pumpkin is a little longer but I don't remember how much, I know there was one user that had an issue with that and broke something in the trans or something... If lowered you would have more of an issue, if 4x4 likely not to have an issue.