How do you identify a Ford differential?

To identify a Ford differential, there are several methods you can use. Here are some steps you can follow:
Visual Identification:
– Inspect the differential housing: Look for any markings, tags, or stamps on the differential housing itself. These markings can provide valuable information for identification.
– Check for a tag number: Ford differentials often have a tag number attached to the housing. The tag number typically consists of a combination of letters and numbers that indicate specific details about the differential, such as the gear ratio and manufacturing date.
– Examine the axle tube stamp: Another method is to locate the axle tube stamp, which is usually found on the axle tube near the differential housing. The stamp may contain information about the differential, including the gear ratio and manufacturing details.
Model Number Identification:
– Locate the model number: Ford differentials may have a model number that can be used for identification. The model number is often found on the identification tags attached to the rear end housing. This number can help determine the specific type of differential you have.
Combination of Visual and Model Number Identification:
– Compare bolt count and inspection cover gasket shape: Some Ford differentials, particularly those manufactured by Dana/Spicer, require a combination of visual inspection and model number identification. You can compare the bolt count and inspection cover gasket shape to reference guides or resources that provide differential identification information.
Remember, if you’re unsure about the identification process or need more specific information, it’s always a good idea to consult with a differential expert or refer to the manufacturer’s documentation for accurate identification.
I hope this helps you identify your Ford differential! Let me know if you have any other questions.

How do I identify my Ford rear end?

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.

How do you determine differential type?

The easiest way to tell if you have an open differential is to jack up the car and spin one of the rear tires. If the other wheel spins in the opposite direction, you have an open differential. If it spins in the same direction, you have a limited slip differential, or LSD.

How do I know what rear end I have Ford?

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.

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 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.

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).

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.

How do you read a Ford differential tag?

It’s an 8 point 8 inch differential. Sometimes they’ll have a limited-slip.

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.

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.