Hey guys i was just wondering what the differences between the 9" in my 66 f100 is and the 8.8. Width and everything ive been searching around and cant really get an answer on whether or not i can bolt it in or not. I can get an 8.8 out of what i believe is an explorer for only $75 and id be able to switch to disc brakes. Just wondering what would have to be changed or if its even compatible with my truck.

 

Explorer's gonna be a lot smaller.

 

Late Model Exlploder with discs is the same basic width.

You will need to cut the spring perches off and relocat them or weld on new. you will also need driveshaft modifications or a complete new shaft withthe correct ends for the exploders yolk.

You will also need to overcome the metric bolt pattern on the rear.

Garbz

 

Well i plan on swapping in the crown vc front end which as far i understand has the same bolt pattern doesnt it? Ill get pictures up soon so far i got the body in pieces and the frame in the driveway.. The spring perches and driveshaft wont be a problem though

 

The CV will be about four inches wider than a nine inch or the 8.8 from an Explorer or ranger.

Garbz

 

i think what you're looking for is the 8.8 out of pre-2003 Crown Vic.
that's about as close as you can get to the same width as the original 9" in your 66.

here's the info i compiled when i was considering this swap:

8.8 widths
86 to 93 V8 mustangs 58.75"
90 to 97 Ford Ranger 58.75
94 to 2003 Ford Exploders 59.75
90 to 95 Aerostar 59.75
79 to 2002 crown vic 62.8"


recap:
1973 f100 63"
pre-2003 crown vic 62.8"
1972 f100 61.25"
explorer 59.5"

 

There are so many disc brake list for a 9" that it would be cheaper to go that route rather then changing the rear end, fighting with spring perches and everything else.

 

8.8" integral rear axle intro'd in F100/150's and Bronco's in 1983. The 9" continued to be used in these vehicles thru 1986, as it depended on the applications.

Some 1983/89 F250's (light duty's-but Ford never called 'em that) also used the 8.8.