Identify 7.5 vs 8.8 Carriers

[GMCPic]

I have a 2003 Ranger XLT 2WD, Automatic 3.0L.

Rear axle is 7.5 non-posi w/3.73 gears.

I purchased what I thought was a 7.5 LS OEM carrier. Then bought some 3.45 gear for 7.5. The gears do not fit. carrier is larger than the center hole in ring gear. So I guess I have a 8.8 carrier.

How do you identify a 7.5 carrier versus an 8.8 carrier just setting on the bench?

I just wanted to add a Limited Slip and higher gears for highway travel. I do a lot of long distant travel was hoping to improve over all gas mileage, with better traction in rain and snow. I do not do much off road travel.

 

[Dishtowel]

Thanks for the good rundown on your Q

The tech library should answer your question.

http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/Axles.html

 

[GMCPic]

The web page had lots of information, but nothing that will help me.

I have a Limited Slip OEM carrier case. I am trying to find out whether it is a 7.5 case or a 8.8 case. Also, I need it to be ABS too.

I am thinking it may be better to just go to my local U-Pull-It and get a complete 8.8 axle assembly.

They have a Ranger axle that is ABS, 8.8, drum brakes, Limited Slip w/3.55 gears for $150.00. Comes complete from drum to drum and springs.

Perhaps a better way to get what I need done?

 

[Hahnsb2]

Leave the 3.73s, with a 3.45s you are almost guaranteed a millage drop with a 3.0.

 

[GMCPic]

Ok...I stay with the 3.73s, but how do I tell which case I have. Is there a physical difference or part number to identify a 7.5 versus a 8.8. If you are only viewing one case and do not have a 7.5 & 8.8 cases side by side to compare.

How would you know the difference? When only looking at one case?

The local U-Pull-It does have a 7.5 LS w/3.73 gears for $150.00. The tag reads 3L73 75 XXXX

 

[Hahnsb2]

I'm unsure of that. Is the carrier/ring gear difference substantial? I do know the ring gear fits very tight on the carrier, is this maybe what you're experiencing?

 

[Totalled]

8.8

7.5

 

[Insanejughead]

8.8" housing looks more like a rounded off square. The 7.5" housing looks something more like a lemon.

I don't have pictures of either, but that's what I think of when I look at them.

As far as the carrier on the inside,... I have no idea what the differences are.

 

[4x4junkie]

Inner dia. on the 8.8" ring gear is 5". The ring gear flange dia. on the 8.8 carrier is 7" (ABS carrier).