Explorer to Ranger rear axle

[Ruffinit]

I have a '94 Exp Sport 4.0L and a '96 Ranger 4.0L. Both are 5 speed (not that it makes a difference) and 4x4 (same ratios). I'm pulling the front end from the Exp to put in the Ranger because the pinion took off and blew a hole in the diff on the Ranger. Given a choice, would you pull the rear axle from the Exp and put it in the Ranger? Why or why not?

Thanks in advance

 

[disciplerocks]

Yes. Even if your Ranger has an 8.8, its only a 27 spline as opposed to the Ex 31 spline. Just a little cut and weld.

 

[Snoranger]

Yes. Even if your Ranger has an 8.8, its only a 28 spline as opposed to the Ex 31 spline. Just a little cut and weld.

Fixed it for you.
And:

 

[Sasquatch_Ryda]

Absolutely worth the swap if you got everything on hand to do it.

 

[disciplerocks]

Lol thanks. I was thinking of the D35.

 

[Ruffinit]

Yeah, I have everything available on both the fully running Exp and Ranger. The cut and weld would be referring to shaving the mounts and rewelding them as the axle on the Exp is mounted above the springs and of course the shock mounts.

Unfortunately Both axles are 3.27s (41 and 91). Neither are LS, so I'm wondering if there is a reason to go this way except for the added weight capabilities.. Maybe I'll just pull the rear end from the Exp and make the changes as time permits. Mainly this will be my winter truck; 4x4 and towing are secondary.