Axle Swap

[john.masce]

1997 2.3 5 speed this truck is a Dog, what would be a good swap. I just want a fast way with not a lot of $$$.

 

[john.masce]

swap

Sorry would like bolt on if possible.

 

[Mac]

What gears in it now? Cheapest is just find a 4.10 8.8 out of a 4.0L Ranger. Dont know what the prices are down there but I have always used car-part.com to find a good selection based on ratio, condition and miles. Just a bolt in with your year truck.
Dave of the Nord

 

[disciplerocks]

You need more motor, less tire, or better gearing. Only way an axle swap will help is if it has better gearing in it.

 

[Captain Ledd]

1997 2.3 5 speed this truck is a Dog, what would be a good swap. I just want a fast way with not a lot of $$$.

Sorry would like bolt on if possible.

Find another Ranger with a 4.10 ratio. That's about as deep as they go from the factory. Pretty much any rear Ranger is bolt in, but especially 1993 and newer. There is some cutoff year where the width is a little different (earlier models), but that's it and it's not by much.

8.8's or 7.5" doesn't matter, will bolt up.

Though the 8.8" will likely have a larger brake drum, and I've heard (have not confirmed) that the parking brake cables are different for the 9" and the 10" brakes.

If you're lucky, an FX4 Level II Ranger will have a fancy-shmancy limited slip in there too.

 

[john.masce]

Thanx in Germany now so when I get home in 30 days the fun will start. I know I need more HP but the thing runs so darn good. I love the look of the sport bed. I will only run 235-75-15 that is as big as I want for the 2.3

 

[Captain Ledd]

Whoops, forgot to add there may be some u-joint or flange issues?. Nothing that can't be addressed with over the counter parts. Or is this for only explorer 8.8's?

At any rate, stick to 1993 and newer and you shouldn't have a problem. Plenty to choose from.