Need help with some 93 Explorer axle swap

[ryanj1022]

ok im taking a 93 Explorer 4x4 V8 and completely overhauling it. crate motor(5.0) with stroker kit. brand new tranny and transfer case. looking to lift it 3-4 inches with spacers and axles to widen the stance a little bit. also lookin to run 36 13.50 nitto's on it. only problem is i dont think the Dana 35 and 8.8 can handle this much power. lookin to put a Dana 44 up front and a 9" out back with spacers. ive heard puttin the 44 up front was a lil tricky bc of independent front suspension. any advice from anyone who has done this swap would be helpful as would an insight on the project, (i.e. gears, possible lifts, transfer cases.... and so on) thanks guys.



sorry guys, typo on year. its a 93 not a 98

 

[mjonesjr]

Unless you are planning on upgrading the 9" with a nodular center section, the Explorer 8.8 is stronger in stock form.

The Dana 35 can handle the power as well as long as your foot isn't in it. If it is, I would upgrade to the Dana 44.

 

[4x4junkie]

The D44's benefits over the D35 are actually relatively minor (has bigger brakes, and a wider wheel bearing spacing... but the shafts/u-joints where it really counts are the same thing on both axles).
If you simply want to go wider, A D44 & 8.8" or 9" from a F-150 may be worth doing, but the D35 is a good sturdy axle already (you can swap a set of D44 knuckles onto the D35 too if you just want the bigger brakes).

If you're really thinking of planting your foot in it however, I'd skip right past the D44/8.8" (or 9") and swap a D60 & 10.25" in there. Chances are better you won't break these.

 

[ryanj1022]

but how would the D60 and 10.25 do on highway as everyday driver?

 

[Toreadorranger]

but how would the D60 and 10.25 do on highway as everyday driver?

1 ton trucks do it everyday.

 

[mjonesjr]

but how would the D60 and 10.25 do on highway as everyday driver?

If you set it up properly, then it will be no different than the Dana 35 & 8.8 combo.

 

[4x4junkie]

Yep, a D60/10.25 can be quite streetable if you take some time to make sure all the geometry aspects of it are sorted out correctly.
A coil spring/radius arm setup generally will have the best street manners.

 

[ryanj1022]

thanks for all the help guys. ive always been able to count on trs.com to help me with anything i need to know about my rangers or rbv's.