Here is what I am running. I am installing a 302/340 horse crate motor running a C4 transmission that I already have. I was wanting to install a Ford 8.8 out of an explorer with the disc breaks and locker. So my question remains is what size gears would I need to have in the rear end to be the best. I was thinking of 373 locker. Any suggestions. Thanks for all the knowledge.

Mitchell

 

what size tires. I have 235-75R15 that are about 29" dia., a 2.91 rear and 4 speed AT. At 70 mph the engine is turning 2360 rpm in 3rd, 1652 in 4th. A little low but probably ok with a torquey engine and not pulling a load. A 3.73 rear would be running 3026 in 3rd and 2118 in 4th. A 3.50 about halfway between these 2. I might pull my camper trailer with mine so I might go looking for 3.50 - 3.73 gears some day.

 

Front Tires are going to be 255/40/18 and the rear tires are going to be 285/30/20. I am believing the 373 gears should be fine. Not doing any real hauling with the truck or towing a camper. Just a weekend rod and maybe a beach trip or two. Thanks

 

26.7 in diameter tires with 3.73 rear and C4 tranny you'll be turning 3287 rpm at 70 mph. Seems a bit high. I've read that the Explorers also had 3.27 and 3.55 trac-loc rears but seems the 3.73 is most common. Your's will be pretty quick off the line with a 3.73 and those wide meats out back. Good luck with your build.

 

Tight and firm is the way I like em!

 

I was considering an explorer 8.8 in mine. My local wrecking yard had about 20 explorers. The majority of them were 3.55 drum rear ends. All the others were 3.73 with either drum or disc. The tag will show 3L73 if it is traction lock and just 373 if its open. My personal preference with a C4 would be the 3.55. That engine has more than enough torque to handle a more highway friendly gear. Of course I'm not a C4 fan really....I like the AOD.

 

Just picked up a 8.8 with 327 with locker and disc brakes for $300 and they are pulling it out for me. Be ready in the morning. We live in a small town and really won't be on highway with the truck to often.

 

Congrats!! That's perfect in my book.

 

Alright guys without me starting a new thread seeing if yall might have any advice. With the new 8.8 rear end I am planning on installing 20x10 in the rear and 18x8 in the front. Do I Have to install widened rear fenders or do you think I would be able to retain stock rear fenders. These are smooth steel wheels.

Thanks

 

Do you have more than 12 inches between the box and fender lip, backspacing and ride hieght? There was only 6 '' rims originally

 

Well got my 8.8 rear end. Stripped it down, replaced rotors, pads, bearings, and flushed and refilled oil. Painted it black and painted diff cover the color truck will be. I know I have to cut old perches off but just couldn't stop. Good to see it looking nice though.

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I think 10 " will be to wide if the truck is lowered. I have 17X8 with 235/55-17 tires and have about 1/2 " clearance on each side of the tire. (bedside & fender side)

 

I have conceded to getting a set of 20x8 steel smoothies from Detroit Wheel Company. Gonna have them powder coated to match truck.