8.8 Swap
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Joined: Feb 2006
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8.8 Swap
Hey all just looking for some advise as to which is the best way to go about swapping the 8.8 for a 9inch? I have a 1994 F-150 4x4 short box reg cab. What to get one from? and what if any extra work asides from the obvious there might be? Also is there anything that can be done to upgrade the fabulous 5 speed? Any input would be great. Thanks
Senior User
Joined: Jan 2006
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From: Iowa
Switching to a 9" on a 92-96 requires relocation of the VSS sensor somehow. This can be done by machining the carrier for the toner ring and drilling the housing for hte VSS sensor mount, or you can put the VSS on the pinion yoke, or you can mount the toner ring on the transfer case yoke if you have a fixed yoke on the back. The reason for this is that your truck has a PSOM which reads the VSS signal and then gives you your speedometer, odometer, cruise, and RABS signals. And you cannot use a T-case mounted VSS for this either (like they did 87-91). Signals are different. You're looking at quite a bit of work involved here. I'll be going through this at somepoint with my 9" swap I have planned. Ford has some screwed up ideas.
The 5-speed? Two letters: ZF. If you gear down then the Mazda isn't bad.
The 5-speed? Two letters: ZF. If you gear down then the Mazda isn't bad.
Hotshot
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 14,285
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From: Bend,OR
the ford 9" cant have a tone ring mounted inside. wont fit otherwise you would see that available. There is a company that has built a VSS kit that relocates it to the driveshaft somewhere. i hear it talked about but havent been there. changing to an older 1356 Tcase would work but require some rewiring.
if you need another axle and strength go with a sterling 10.25. it will have everything you need and is a direct bolt in. but it is 8 lug
if you need another axle and strength go with a sterling 10.25. it will have everything you need and is a direct bolt in. but it is 8 lug
Post Fiend
Joined: Nov 2001
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From: Topsfield, MA
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Thanks for everything guys I'm starting to think I'll end up just beefing it up and replace the stock stuff with some aftermarket. However I have another question now....I have an open diff and I want a locker or swap for a posi what's the best way to go about this and the best gear for the job, also my truck has HIGH gears I'm pretty sure they're like 3.08's or very close to, my question is, Is there a total package that would sevre me best. I was thinking 3.73's. The truck is used mostly around the city and for hunting and going to the lumber yard now and again, thats about it. Thanks agian.
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Postmaster
Joined: Nov 2004
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From: Nebraska
To do that you will need to change out the front gears also to the same as the rear if money is not an issue go ahead and put in a LS in the front when you do the rear since you will have to change the ring and pinion in the front to match the rear.
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Post Fiend
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 14,947
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From: Topsfield, MA
Check out the tranny, axle, and differential forum for information on lockers, limited slips, etc.
This original thread topic is alright in this forum but specifics on axle components fit better in the other forum.
This original thread topic is alright in this forum but specifics on axle components fit better in the other forum.
