wore-out rear axle and wanting to upgrade!

[1993rangerxl]

My 93 has axle problems again! Leaking at ends and at pinion bearing. It's a 7.5" . I abuse this more than often enough by too much weight. My question is this, would an 8.8" diff be better suited for my abuse? I have a limited budget and no shop to work in so I'm looking for a straight bolt in. Also, will I be able to reuse my driveshaft with the 8.8? Thanks for all your help and feedback.

 

[lvwill]

8.8 is definitely an upgrade. If you get one out of a ranger it will bolt right in. Your drive shaft will work fine.

 

[1993rangerxl]

Thank you for your answer. Now to find one with the 4.10 gears and hopefully a limited slip! And not for $400+!

 

[Captain Ledd]

For a '93, should be fine. Ranger 8.8's use the same axle shafts as 7.5's, FYI. The bigger shafts come in Explorer axles, but that requires welding...

 

[1993rangerxl]

I'd really like to put the explorer axle in, but I would have to take it to a driveline shop to have the spring perches welded in place and at the correct angles to have everything work out correctly.