I have a bent rear axle and I'm trying to find a direct bolt in replacement. The truck is a 1999 Ford Ranger 4.0L 4x4 with a rear axle code 96 (8.8, 28-spline, 3.73, open). Everyone is telling me the 93-97's are different than the 98-09 but they can't tell me why. Brakes? Pinion flange? I found several R6 (8.8, 28-spline, 3.73, limited slip) and 96 axle code rear axles but between 1994 and 1995. Also, is the Mazda B3000-4000 axles of the same code identical? Thanks!

 

I am not sure about the 4x4 rear end , but for my 2 wheel drive 99 I was told 95 to 2001 I think,,,,,94 and older is wrong generation,,,,call your local auto salvage yard and see if they have a interchange book

 

Ranger 28-spline 8.8s are all identical from 1990-2009. There is absolutely no difference between them. Mazda B-Series also used the same identical 8.8s.

 

Thank you for the responses! I am now confident in the 1994 axle I have selected. I'm guessing something is slightly different in the brakes that probably doesn't matter. I'll just swap mine over anyway.

 

The Mazda B series trucks are literally a Ford Ranger with a different front clip and a few Mazda badges here and there.. they were built on the same assembly line with Rangers back in the day when this partnership was ongoing.