From what I can see a late 80s mustang (at 59") or t-bird /cougar(at 61 1/2") differential show fit under my 53 f100. but I cannot find either of these documented as an alternative. Has anyone done this, or know of a reason why either of these would not work.

 

i knew the cougar rear would work but i didnt know about the mustang but either way the explorer one comes with either drum or disc rear brakes

 

I got mine from a 69 or 70 Mustang 9" 61.250 needed to reweld new shock and spring mounts. Ed, this was for my 50 F1 but I believe they are the same for the rear width. Ed

 

They'll work.Just depends on how much work you want to do.I used an 8.8 from a 97 Town Car.It's a little on the wide side but I just used a wheel with more offset.Check my gallery for pics.