Looking for a LS rear axle for 2003 with a 4.10 87 currently

[malacarr]

I was looking for some feedback to make sure I am looking for the right thing and that you guys think it makes sense. I have a 2003 Ranger with the 2.3L automatic and an 87-rear

axle. I would like to convert it to a LS rear axle, and I think that would be the F7 or R7 rear axle. Is that correct and if so, has anyone else done this and do you think it is worth it?

 

[scotts90ranger]

It really depends on your use, if you just need more traction and don't mind some ratcheting action a lunchbox locker like a locrite that just replaces the spider gears is a much simpler find. A lot of people don't love the Ford clutch limited slip axles as they wear out pretty quick, they work fine until they don't then they wear out the spider gears...

As far as staying 4.10 gears I would recommend it, they're fantastic, I'm running the same size tire on my '97 Ranger and it is perfect with my 5 speed... for it's daily driver and weekend jackassery (never know, I've had like 1000 pounds in the bed hauling stuff...) an open diff is working fine for now, of course I have grand ideas but who knows if they will materialize...

 

[malacarr]

It really depends on your use, if you just need more traction and don't mind some ratcheting action a lunchbox locker like a locrite that just replaces the spider gears is a much simpler find. A lot of people don't love the Ford clutch limited slip axles as they wear out pretty quick, they work fine until they don't then they wear out the spider gears...

As far as staying 4.10 gears I would recommend it, they're fantastic, I'm running the same size tire on my '97 Ranger and it is perfect with my 5 speed... for it's daily driver and weekend jackassery (never know, I've had like 1000 pounds in the bed hauling stuff...) an open diff is working fine for now, of course I have grand ideas but who knows if they will materialize...

Ok, so next question is why would you not recommend the 4.10 gear? The only reason that I was looking to do the LS rear end was if I was in snow or on the side of the road and one wheel starts to slip. As far as being on the side of the road I can remember when I was j younger and pulled to the side of the road to change a flat tire, the ground was damp enough that after changing the tire I then had to call a friend to help get me out because one tire on the wet grassy area would just spin and I couldn't go anywhere.

 

[scotts90ranger]

You already have 4.10's, I was recommending to stay with them.

If that is the case then yes a limited slip axle would help, sometimes in that case sneaking on the parking brake a little helps put a little drag on bot axles and helps give traction to the other side, I've never had it work but I haven't tried in a lot of years...

F7 and R7 are the correct codes to look for and your year range is '93-09 for axles that will interchange. You could include '90-92 if you don't mind the rear axle being about an inch narrower.

 

[pjtoledo]

it might sound easier just to buy another axle to swap. but,,, that axle will be 20+ years old and probably in need of seals and a couple bearings.
if you have the time & tools it's just as easy/hard to replace the parts in your axle. that would be a new ls carrier plus seals & bearings.

good tires make a huge difference when the situation gets messy.