anyone use the explorer 8.8 rear with their 1950 ford f-1 with 15'' rims what offset do i need? I want to buy smoothie rims with half moon caps and dont know what would work please help me.

 

I am using 15x8 cragars 255 r15 70 tires and 4.50" backspacing with a Explorer 8.8 rearend. This is on a 56

 

Sean,
I just wanted to thank you for asking that question - We also have a 1950 F1 & are in the process of installing the Explorer 8.8 rear end - haven't thought through the backspacing question. Did you happen to use the entire Explorer rear end? There is some odd shock & "3 link" support stuff that came with our's - would need to modify it to fit under the bed - was wondering if it's worth the effort.

Ben in Austin

 

I used the 8.8 with smoothies I'll see if I can find a picture; I think the backspace is 4: the rimes are 15x8 tires 255/60s

 

I am using 8.8" from Explorer on my '50 F1; using 15" rims from Mopar @ 3.75" backspace. Have not mounted yet, but pickup my painted rims this week; using 4.5" from Crown Vic I had only 3/4 " clearance between rear tire and box.

Tom

 

use this form from Billet Specialties to measure, and the tire size calculator from discount tire..
worked perfectly for my tires and wheels

Sam

 

I used a 8.8 explorer axle for my 48F1. Tci leaf spring kit, lowered 4" in the back. The box now sits between the tires instead of above, and I had some clearance problems. I had smoothies custom made and they arrived with almost 4" of backspace instead of the 3.5" I ordered. There was some slight rubbing on the inside of the tire on the box. I purchased some 1" spacers, which converted the bolt pattern to match the jag front end, and the fit is good with a 235/65r16 tire on a 16 x 7 rim. I could go wider, but that's the tire size I decided on.

 

I will calcuate this weekend. As for bens question yes the explorer rear will need to be cleaned up knock all spring perches off with a grinder stone and keep knocking these off with a big hammer until they fall off. than clean up the tube on the rear being careful not to grind down too much. I cut new perches from 2'' square tube took my time and bolted these loosley under my springs got my measurement than tacked these on with my pionin angle set right. Than take it out weld it than assemble again. Its not hard if you take your time and have a friend help. i will post pictures of mine in my profile for you
thanks sean