Identifying Your Ford Differential
If you’re looking to identify your Ford differential, there are several methods you can use, including visual inspection and locating model numbers from identification tags. Here are some key points to consider:
Visual Identification:
– Ford vehicles use a variety of differential units, including those manufactured by Ford and the Dana Corporation. Visual identification can be used for primary Ford units, while certain Dana/Spicer units require a combination of visual and model number identification.
– Different differentials can be identified by the number of cover bolts, the shape of the cover, the number of ring gear bolts, and the ring gear diameter. They can also be identified by whether the center section is an integral or dropout design.
– Ford 9-inch differentials, for example, have a 9-inch ring-gear diameter, which can be a helpful visual indicator.
Model Number and Tag Identification:
– The most accurate differential identification is provided by the bottom line of the tag number or axle tube stamp. Differential tags can be used to identify Dana and Ford differentials.
– Ford tag numbers can provide valuable information, such as the manufacturing date.
– Additionally, you can verify both the axle tag and door-tag codes to determine whether the vehicle still has its original rear end. Counting the bolts on the rear-end housing and visually identifying the rear-end gasket shape can also help in identification.
Online Resources:
– Websites like West Coast Differentials and RANDYS Worldwide provide detailed information and resources for identifying Ford differentials, including photos, measurements, and carrier breaks for specific fitments,.
By using a combination of these methods, you can effectively identify your Ford differential and gather the necessary information for any repair, upgrade, or overhaul projects.
Contents
- How do I know if I have a 8.8 or 9.75 rear end?
- How do I know what rear gear I have?
- Where is the differential number located?
- How do you decode a Ford rear end tag?
- What is the ID tag on a Ford 8.8 rear end?
- Can you tell gear ratio from VIN?
- How do I identify my Ford Dana axle?
- How do I know what Ford differential I have?
- How do I identify my axle?
- What Ford rear end do I have?
How do I know if I have a 8.8 or 9.75 rear end?
On the passenger’s side upper and lower corners, there’s two semi-circular divots that can easily be seen when looking at the cover from straight on. While the Super 8.8’s cover has a bulge for the ring gear, it’s not anywhere near as pronounced as the 9.75’s.
How do I know what rear gear I have?
Check the Differential Cover
The axle may have a sticker, and on the differential cover, you might have a small metal tag that’s sticking out that will have the gear ratio stamped on it.
Where is the differential number located?
Information about Differentials in GM vehicles can usually be obtained by looking at the RPO or “Regular Production Option” codes contained in the Service Parts Identification tag in the glovebox or the driver’s side door jamb (B-Pillar).
How do you decode a Ford rear end tag?
Whether. It needs an additive or not usually that’s on those tags also. As far as identifying Ford. Gives most of the Fords will have the same format. So your super duties your f-150 is your Mustangs.
What is the ID tag on a Ford 8.8 rear end?
A Ford identifying tag is attached to one of the rear cover bolts. The four-letter code on the top right of the tag will be a dead giveaway as to whether you have found an 8.8-inch axle. The first three digits of these codes are listed with the original applications mentioned on the chart.
Can you tell gear ratio from VIN?
You don’t. That information is not contained in the VIN, UNLESS a specific model only gets one rear end ratio. VIN tells country of manufacture, vehicle make, class, engine type, size, date of manufacture, plant and serial number. That is the ONLY information contained by the VIN.
How do I identify my Ford Dana axle?
The Dana Axle Bill of Material Number will tell us what your axle model is, the ratio, and what parts your particular axle was built with. There should be a metal Dana BOM Tag held on by two of the diff cover bolts. There should also be a white Ford assembly decal on the right axle beam.
How do I know what Ford differential I have?
The most accurate differential identification is provided by the bottom line of the tag number or axle tube stamp. Differential tags can easily be used to identify Dana and Ford differentials.
How do I identify my axle?
Sprung and Torflex axle labels can be found on the side of the axle facing your rear bumper. The axle label provides critical manufacturing information, including the axle serial number, axle capacity, and axle build information. Locating your axle label will help ensure that you identify your axle correctly.
What Ford rear end do I have?
The ID tag can be your friend. It will tell you the gear ratio, rearend style, and whether it has limited-slip. Also on the tag is an ID number, which, until 1985, included four to five letters, no numbers. Almost all 8.8s—and all post-1986 Ford rearends—have letters and numbers.