96 2.3 2wd 7.5 for 1999 8.8 rear ?

[fluknick]

Hey all !

I previously posted this under "2wd" forum, BUT...

I have a 96 Ranger 2.3, 2wd, with a 7.5 rear end.
Is a 1999 Ranger 8.8 rear end a direct swap, in terms of suspension mounts, yoke, u-joints, drive shaft etc ?
I have local access to one, and it is relatively inexpencive ( would include rear, yoke, axles, disks, calipers ).

I would update the 8.8 differential.

My current rear end has a hum / whine. Its not all the time. I took it to Ford, and they said it was definately the rear end and it is worn. But it could last 10 more years, depending on how I drive. I then let a mechanic friend (professional) drive it, poke around, etc. He said three weeks or 10 years- but he agreed with Ford.

So, my thought is upgrade....

Any thoughts, comments, knowledge of wierdness about the swap, would be appriciated !
What should I expect, with this swap ?

Thanks !
Nick

 

[tinman_72]

Yup. It is all direct bolt-on except for the disc brakes.

 

[fluknick]

Thank you Tinman_72 !

 

[Mac]

Yup. It is all direct bolt-on except for the disc brakes.

No disc brakes on a '99' Ranger but yes, bolt in all the way.
Dave

 

[don4331]

fluknick:

http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/Ford-8_8-axle.shtml

So, while it indeed bolts right in; it might look a little weird with tires pushed out, although it isn't that significant.

Do you know if ratios are the same? (If it has discs, I would suspect it is an Explorer axle and springs mounts might not be on right side...)

Note: At some point, the mods will correct the tech page as it says 93-97 is 56.5" in one spot and 58.5" in another.

 

[fluknick]

Mac and Don,

Great points.
I did not want to get into the explorer swap, if I could find a Ranger.
I havent seen it directly, but have read the 8.8 artical previously, to know the explorer vs ranger differences.
Thank you for throwing out that link....its a must read !

I asked the guy if it had disks, he said "I think it does !".

But, now I know if it does, its an explorer.
Imma look at this weekend.

Im not certain about the ring size, but i am planning mods to it anyway.
But i hope its not really an explorer ( it would be a good start, i weld, but a ranger rear would be soooooo much better ! )

So thank you all for the comments, thoughts, facts.
Much appriciated !

Nick...

 

[adsm08]

Actually no, the Ranger rear wouldn't be "sooooooo much better". The Explorer has discs, bigger bearings, more splines, all around stronger unit.

The only advantage to the Ranger is its bolt in.