rear axle/diff.

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Apr 28, 2016 | 05:28 AM

tiger100

Thread Starter

Mountain Pass

Joined: Dec 2014

Posts: 109

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rear axle/diff.

I've read on here where people are/have used the rear end from fairly late model Ford Explorer. Could anyone tell me If it is possible, or worthwhile using one from a 2000 model f150? I'm offered one with 3-73 gearing, (its a fair drive from here, so wonder if its worth chasing) it has disc brakes etc.
Would there be a lot of hassle to fit it......if its possible?

Thanks for your help, as always.

Apr 28, 2016 | 05:34 AM

avf100

Cargo Master

Joined: Oct 2010

Posts: 2,091

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From: Lancaster, CA.

I don't know exact measurements of the F150, but it is probably to wide.

Apr 28, 2016 | 10:04 AM

MattK1

Junior User

Joined: Feb 2016

Posts: 62

Likes: 1

I used a 1997 Explorer Sport 8.8 with discs. I believe the F150 rear end was way too wide(about 6 inches)
95+ Ford Explorer 8.8 Specs.

31 Spline Axle
1.32" Axle Diameter
3.25" Axle Tube Diameter
8.8" Ring Gear Diameter
Traction Device - (optional/trac-lock)
Disc Brakes (95 and newer)
6,500lbs working before breakage
Entire Length 59 3/4"

Apr 28, 2016 | 04:50 PM

tiger100

Thread Starter

Mountain Pass

Joined: Dec 2014

Posts: 109

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avf100 and MattK1..........Thanks for your answers.
Forgot to mention it was for a 51F1......I thought it might be too wide!
Ah well, back to the drawing board.

May 2, 2016 | 03:27 PM

petemcl

Logistics Pro

Joined: Nov 2011

Posts: 4,685

Likes: 81

From: Northville, MI

Here is some info available on this forum that may help you:
1948 through 1960 Ford F-1 and F-100 Rear Axle (differential) Swaps - Ford-Trucks.com

May 4, 2016 | 08:55 AM

tiger100

Thread Starter

Mountain Pass

Joined: Dec 2014

Posts: 109

Likes: 0

rear axle/diff

petemcl thanks for that. I will look into finding a wreckers/junkyard that has some 'old stuff' laying around. Seems like most of my local places only have modern.
Plenty to do before needing to really worry about axle/diff anyway!
Geoff.

May 4, 2016 | 12:02 PM

petemcl

Logistics Pro

Joined: Nov 2011

Posts: 4,685

Likes: 81

From: Northville, MI

The above article was written in Oct 2004 and I think that many more modern solutions have been discovered. The document probably needs updating. Regardless the key measurement is 60 ½" between axle flanges. Note that axles 58"-61" according to the article also work. You will need to order wheels with the proper offset. In most cases you will have to cut off the old spring purchases and re-weld them in a proper location to fit your spring widths and pinion angles. New ones are also available from several popular suppliers, Speedway Motors is one. So when you go to the junk yard take along your tape measure and don't rule our more modern axles.

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May 4, 2016 | 03:21 PM

55 f350

Post Fiend

Joined: Mar 2007

Posts: 5,776

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From: springfield il

To what i understand the explorer diff is 3/4 inches narrow . your 51 has the same width diff as all trucks upto what 72 i think . i used the 8.8 out of a 88 crown vic / merc marquis i parted out some time ago in my 53 . i had to cut all the 4link / coil spring stuff off of it but ...... It was 3/8 inches wider than my oe dana 44 . no big deal at all . i think the body style of vic , to which i refer to as "square body" was made from like79 till 91 before they changed 'em to the bubble style . lots and lots of them out there . mine had a 3.08 ratio which with my heavy t98 four gear and flathead v8 works out to be a poor mans overdrive .