I have searched this topic with no luck.
I'm doing the crown vic front but need help on the rear options. Has anyone install the cv rear with 4 link, or should I just flip the 9"?

 

What about this? Yes a shameless plug for my truck. Quite a few guys use the rear axle from an Explorer. Has the same bolt circle, 8.8 center section, easy to find 1 with Trac-Loc & good gear selection even when shopping factory. Rear disc brakes as well.

 

I was concerned with the 2" pinion offset on the explorer. Thought about the IRS like you did but my budget is real small.

 

I don't know what a small budget is for you so I will run down the IRS install. I paid $125 for the complete rear suspension unit. Another $400 for the mount kit. You have your incidentals like new rear U Joint & adapters to connect your 3/16" line to the metric hoses. I think the shocks were around $75 for the pair.

Now after that you can do as you desire. I found a Trac-Loc & 3.55 gears for it (somewhere around $100 but not a required). I will be converting to Cobra rear discs in the future adding to the expense but again that is my choice not a requirement. Not trying to sell you on the IRS just illustrating what I have in doing the IRS.

 

1991/2012 Explorer's have 5 lug wheels on a 4.50" bolt circle. 8.8" is an integral rear end, has an inspection cover.

5 lug wheels on a 5.50" bolt circle: 1953/79 F100 / 1966/96 Bronco / 1969/74 E200 / 1975/96 F150 / 1975/2013 E100/150 / Some 1980/83 F100.

 

Not to get in a pissing match with you Bill but he said he is doing the CV IFS. My reference to the bolt circle was the Explorer matched the CV not the original truck pattern. Ford also built a smaller rear (7.?) that I have seen in many a Ranger when I was searching for a Trac-Loc & gears at the salvage yard. It too has an inspection cover. I do not believe the smaller rear was used in Explorers. Both center sections were used in the MN 12 depending on engine. Small engine got the small diff. Larger or supercharged engines had 8.8 centers.

 

Thanks for the info. Looks like about the same cost either way. As I'm just now gathering parts this will help me.