Cant seem to decode axle code

[Aaron N.S.]

OK so I'm a total NOOB to ranger axles. So are the 28 spline, and 31 spline axle shafts the same diameter? Also whats the width difference between a ranger axle to a explorer axle? same year wise...?

 

[Mac]

The Explorer is about 3/4" wider on each side than the Ranger. The 28 spline is approximatly 1.20" dia while the 31 is 1.37, these are at the splines. Don't have an actual shaft to measure in the middle.
Dave

 

[4x4junkie]

It's 1.625" for the 31 spline (Explorer) shaft bearing journal. Ranger (28 spline) is 1.4".

Axle widths are also in the FAQ at the top here.

59.5" for the Explorer ('91-'01)
58.5" for '93-current Ranger
56.5" for '83-'92 Rangers.