Can't Decide?

[mc_muench]

Right now i have a stock open Ford 7.5 with 3.45 gears, and can't decide what to do

Opt1: Keep axle, get a Powertrax Lock-right
Opt2: Keep axle, get a Powertrax Lock-right, but also regear to 3.73
Opt3: Get "new to me" junkyard axle, a Ford 8.8 L/S with either 3.73 or 4.10


what are your opinions?, which is cheapest?, etc.

 

[dangerranger83]

IMO get the 8.8. Its stronger and you might be able to find it in the gears you want in it already.

 

[4x4junkie]

Yep, 8.8". You should be able to find one with the gears you want for under $250 if you look around some.

 

[dangerranger83]

I've seen them cheaper but good luck getting your hands on them first and in the gear ratio you need.

 

[mc_muench]

well i went to a junkyard a while back, and was looking and still am looking for rear bumper brackets, and all the rear ends i was looked at were axle codes R6 and R7 which is an 8.8 L/S with 3.73 and 4.10 gears so i just gotta pick one and take her off

 

[dla]

Right now i have a stock open Ford 7.5 with 3.45 gears, and can't decide what to do

Opt1: Keep axle, get a Powertrax Lock-right
Opt2: Keep axle, get a Powertrax Lock-right, but also regear to 3.73
Opt3: Get "new to me" junkyard axle, a Ford 8.8 L/S with either 3.73 or 4.10


what are your opinions?, which is cheapest?, etc.

Get an open 8.8 from a 1996-2001 Explorer. Regear to 4.30. Install an Aussie locker. Enjoy.

 

[mc_muench]

if i get a explorer 8.8, isnt it wider and have different mounts than my ranger, but if i get a 8.8 from a ranger isnt it a bolt on and be done with it, or am i just talking BS.

 

[mc_muench]

im going to a junkyard tomorrow, so if i get a 8.8 L/S with 3.73 or 4.10 gears, FROM A RANGER, will it bolt directly on my ranger without modification?

 

[Ranger44]

If you get an 8.8, and with you having a 3.0, get 4.10's!!!!

 

[mc_muench]

If you get an 8.8, and with you having a 3.0, get 4.10's!!!!

thats my plan, but will it bolt right on since its from another ranger?, cause on an explorer 8.8 there is some modification i hear

 

[kennykenny]

If it is from a ranger you will have no problem at all. Explorer axles require some welding.

 

[Downey]

get an explorer one disc. brakes in the rear are amazing

 

[kennykenny]

x2 I did my swap 31sp 8.8 with discs a few months ago and the difference in braking is unbelievable.