Hey,

I have access to a 85 8.8" axle with open diff and 3.55's
I am considering using to replace the axle in my 96' as its 2.73's and sucks ROYALY for towing with.

now i know the 85 is missing the tone ring so i will lose my RABS (what a joke it is) and i will lose my speedo. that's not a big deal ether as i can do math and have a tach.
I haven't been able to find any other draw backs to not having the tone ring.....

Tucks are:
85' F150 XL 300 and 4spd with 3.55's
96' F150 XL 300 and M5R2 with 2.73's

are the spring perches and sock mounts the same?

I know the drum size changes too for the brakes but are the cylinders the same for fluid required to actuate them?

Anything I'm missing?

Thanks guys.
Joe

Edit:

i know the drive shaft flanges are different, can i just pop off the pinion nut change the flange and re-torque or will this change the gear mesh inside?

 

You're seriously OK with losing your speedometer?

The PCM uses the speed sensor to control electronic transmission shift points too.

 

ya i rarley look at it anyways 2k rpm 4th gear is where i cruse with the 2.73's

I do all the shifting lol, its a 5spd