How good is a Ford 8.8 rear end?

Ford 8.8 Rear End Strength and Reliability
The Ford 8.8 rear end has an excellent reputation among drag racers and hot rod builders for its ability to handle significant amounts of torque without reliability concerns. It is commonly used in modern performance machines, including Ford Mustangs, Ford F-Series trucks, and Ford Rangers, and is available in both stick axle and independent rear suspension setups, making it more versatile than the Ford 9-inch rear end.
The 8.8 rear end is considered strong and reliable, with some users reporting that it can handle up to 1,200 horsepower with the appropriate upgrades, such as welding the tubes, adding 9-inch ends, and using 31 or 33 spline axles . Additionally, when equipped with 31 spline axles and a 31 spline Eaton Posi, it can be as strong or stronger than a Chevy 12-bolt rear end.
While the 8.8 rear end is generally well-regarded for its strength and reliability, it is important to note that it may require specific upgrades to meet the demands of high-performance applications. However, it is generally considered a good choice for various builds, and many users have reported positive experiences with its strength and durability.
In summary, the Ford 8.8 rear end is known for its strength and reliability, particularly when properly upgraded to meet specific performance demands. It is a popular choice for modern performance machines and has been used in various high-performance applications with positive results.

What’s so great about a Ford 9-inch rear end?

Besides an inherently large ring-gear diameter (bigger than all competitive passenger-car performance rearends, except the massively heavy and relatively rare 9¾-inch Dana 60), the Ford’s biggest strength advantage over competitive rearends is its greater hypoid distance.

What rear end does a Top Fuel dragster have?

The 12 1/4” Live Axle rear end is the finest rear end available for Top Fuel and Funny Car. The main housing is unique in both design and material. The top load design coupled with a one piece axle, provides an excellent structural base that maximizes gear life and significantly reduces rear end distortion.

What cars came with a Ford 8.8 rear end?

Common Applications

• 1986-2014 Ford Mustang.
• 1982-2012 Ford F-150.
• 1982-1996 Ford Bronco.
• 2001-2005 Ford Explorer Sport Trac.
• 1991-2011 Ford Ranger 4.0L models.
• 1991-2001 Ford Explorer (Solid axle)
• 1985-2011 Ford Panther platform vehicles.

What’s the difference between 8.8 and 9.75 rear end?

Basically if it’s symmetrical then it’s the 8.8. If it’s tapered on one side it’s the 9.75. Both are 12 bolt.

What is the best Ford rear end for drag racing?

9 inch Ford
The dependable 9 inch Ford rear end has by far the widest application reach. Strange offers an impressive array of internal performance parts, Ford 9 inch spools, ford 9 pinion supports, and ford 9 gear sets to build industry-leading complete drag racing rear ends.

What is the difference between a Ford 8.8 and 9 inch rear end?

The Ford 8.8 Rear Axle Is Cheaper Than a 9-Inch
11) The 8.8 is cheaper than a 9-inch, and if you add 31-spline axles, it can be as strong as a GM 12-bolt. The pinion-gear shaft diameter is larger than on a 9-inch and the same size as on a Chevy 12-bolt. 12) Ranger and Explorer axles have a 5-on-412-inch bolt pattern.

Are Ford 8.8 rear ends strong?

The 8.8 is also lighter than the 9 inch and it takes less power to turn it. If you took a 8.8 and put a 31 spline Eaton Posi in it with a set of 31 spline axles you would have a very good rear end. It would be as strong or stronger than a Chevy 12 bolt.

What is the best differential for burnouts?

The limited-slip differential is perhaps the best drug known to hoon-kind. It’s the trick tech that keeps your burnouts from being sad one-tire fires. Once you drive one, you’re hooked.

Is a Ford 8.8 differential limited slip?

The good news is that many of these 8.8 differentials included the Traction-Lok limited-slip differential option, which can be identified by a large, S-shaped clip pressing against the inside of the side gears. This can be seen only with the cover off; without an ID tag, you can’t spot a Traction–Lok from the outside.

Why is the Ford 8.8 so good?

The original Fox-body 8.8 used from ’86-’93 can be easily upgraded with better axles, a stronger limited slip with more clutches, and bigger axle bearings to become a very durable yet light rearend assembly. And the best part is you won’t spend a ton of money to get there.