I need to select a rear end for my '55 F-100 with a 390 and a car 4 speed (65-72 Ford T&C Toploader).

I would like the disc brakes and ratio from a late model Ranger or Explorer but don't want too much complexity with installation and want to be sure the diff can handle the motor.

I want to keep the 5.5" bolt pattern.

I have access to a 70? F-100 9" for $125 and think that will give me a better ratio or access to what I want since it is a 9". I think I want a 3.25-3.50 as it will be a mild street driver.

I will have discs on the original axle on the front.

Any thoughts from the experts on selecting for ease of installation and still have a street compatable ratio?

Thanks for the help.

 

Terry,

re: the Exploder rear end -

It's an 8.8 but unless you're planning on standing on the loud pedal a lot, I'm sure it would take what a 390 would give it.

However, the Exploder has the 5 on 4 1/2 pattern which you don't seem to want.

Up here I was quoted $100.00 more for an Exploder than for a 57-72 F100 or a 71-73 Mustang.

The rear discs would be aprox. 7.73 on the cool scale but I have no idea what sort of effort/fabrication would be required to mate the Exploder rear to your Effie.

That old F100 rear for $125.00 would sure take abuse and you should be able to find other ratios in the wrecking yards a heck of a lot easier. And of course, it has the bolt pattern you seem to want.

I'm fairly sure there's someone in here that has experience with an Exploder/Ranger rear end install with the disc brakes.....


Later,

 

This kit will fit your later truck 9 inch won't it?

http://www.tsmmfg.com/Ford_truck_rear_axles.htm

 

Terry

You won't have a gear ratio availability problem with either choice. 8.8 and 9 gears are both pretty plentiful.

 

I would go with the 70 F-100 9", it's a simple bolt in swap, the width is right, a 3.50 ratio is common in F-100s, lots of others available. There are disc brake conversions form the aftermarket, I missplaced the websites but I got them here so I am sure someone has them handy. I have a 9" from a LincolnVersailles that I was going to use in my 56, but I have since heard that these dics are not that good. It's also a bit too narrow so I may sell it and use 9" from a 70 Galaxie and install aftermarket discs.