95 F-150, 351w, 4x4 Supercab, 3.55 8.8, 153k. Rear pinion bearing is bad. Not sure yet about the condition of the pinion and ring gear. It has a lot of play and makes a howling noise - unfortunately it had been mistaken for tire noise (and ignored) for at least the last 3k miles. We use this truck just for towing on short/medium length trips.

I figure the cheapest way to get back on the road is a bearings-and-seals rebuild and replace the pinion/ring only if they are damaged.

1) Anyone have good links or tips on the rebuild job? It's damn hard to search for "8.8".

2) Are the procedures for Mustang 8.8s similar? Are any parts interchangeable with the F-150s 8.8?

3) What else would be good to do while 'in there'? I kind of want to go a 4.10 ratio, but that means changing the front too - sounds like a budget-breaker.

Dave

 

It is the gears themselves are not costly it's what you pay out to a garage unless you have all the proper tools to replace the ring and pinion gear.

 

Thanks, I have some of the important tools: air impact wrench, dial indicator, feeler gauges, etc.

I see that Natl Drivetrain has a Dana 44/Ford 8.8 4.10 kit for $430. Is the Dana much harder to rebuild than the 8.8?

Dave

 

I picked up a Yukon rebuild kit - it has a booklet showing the basics of the job.

The guy suggested also changing the axle seals - so I definitely added them to the list.

Thanks, I'll report the results (in case anyone else is looking for info)

Dave

 

Well for the new style D44 IFS yes cause you have alot more to take apart than the 8.8

 

Yeah, I decided I'm gonna skip the ratio change and not touch the front.

I also found some good sources for how-to info:
http://www.angelfire.com/theforce/5o...5ohtech001.htm
https://www.ford-trucks.com/article/...ear_Setup.html
http://www.badshoeproductions.com/products.html

Dave