Will this rear end work with my '97 Ranger?

[bossfrog]

I have a '97 Ranger Supercab with a 2.3L engine and 5-speed tranny. The differential in it is shot to hell and needs replaced. I found one about an hour away for cheap. I just want to be sure it's compatible with my '97 before I go look at it. Here is the ad:

http://muncie.craigslist.org/pts/2835294311.html

I talked to him for quite a while. He said he only took the cover off to take a picture and put it right back on, so it hasn't actually been sitting around like that. He said the fluid was clean when he drained it. Anyway, I just want to make sure I can use it before wasting my time.

Also, what kind of things do I need to look at to assess whether it is in good working order or that it's a piece of junk?

Oh, one last thing. The ad mentions that the guy was told it was a locker (which I don't want) but it looks like a LSD to me. Am I wrong?

Thanks for any help in this matter.

 

[RangerSVT]

That one is narrower than yours by about 3 inches...

SVT

 

[Hahnsb2]

It's a bit narrower and uses a smaller pattern pinion flange than what you have now.

 

[bossfrog]

So.... not recommended?

 

[RangerSVT]

I'd keep looking...

SVT

 

[bossfrog]

Thanks