rearend swap

[2002edgeplussupercab]

Can I swap the 7.5" rearend in my 2002 RWD Ranger for a 2000 Explorer 8.8" ?

Sorry, I searched the threads and read the FAQ's and learned how to identify my rearend. I have a crappy 7.5" 3.73 open.

What are some critical things to know about this swap ?

Anyone know what an average labor charge might be ?

Thanks in advance ?

 

[Mac]

Look in the tech library for info. http://www.therangerstation.com/how-to/axles/ford-explorer-8-8-inch-rear-axle-swap/
Dave

 

[scotts90ranger]

Labor changes greatly on shop and what they do... honestly it's a pretty easy swap other than parking brake, it's just a matter of pulling the old axle, putting a "flip kit" which there are some F150 brackets that don't require welding apparently to make the Explorer axle spring over then welding on shock mounts. If going with a disc brake axle that adds some time, best route is two passenger side hoses and using the Ranger center drop brake line which involves cutting the tube and flaring it for two new nuts. The parking brake cable takes bolting the Explorer bracket to the frame and making an extension to mate the two cables.

Depending on the shop, this could be 2-3 hours of labor (figure $150/hr most likely) or 8 hours...

 

[2002edgeplussupercab]

Thanks. How do I know if I have 28 or 31 spline shaft ?

 

[scotts90ranger]

All explorer 8.8's are 31 spline, all Ranger axles (7.5 or 8.8) are 28 spline except for FX4 Level 2 versions (extremely rare) which are 31 spline.

 

[2002edgeplussupercab]

Thanks !