Is a Ford 8.8 the same as a Ford 9-inch?

Are the Ford 8.8 and Ford 9-inch the same?
The Ford 8.8 and Ford 9-inch rear ends are similar but not identical. While they share some characteristics, there are differences in terms of design and capabilities.
The Ford 9-inch rear end is known for its strength and durability. It has a larger ring-gear diameter, measuring 9 inches, which contributes to its robustness. The pinion-shaft diameter of the Ford 9-inch is 1.313 inches.
On the other hand, the Ford 8.8 rear end is also a strong option, especially when properly built. It has a slightly smaller ring-gear diameter of 8.80 inches and a pinion-shaft diameter of 1.625 inches, which is the same as the Chevy 12-bolt rear end.
In terms of stock strength, the Ford 8.8 and Ford 9-inch are comparable. However, the Ford 9-inch has more aftermarket support for gear ratios and larger aftermarket shafts, back braces, etc. Additionally, the Ford 9-inch is often preferred for high-power applications due to its ability to handle a significant amount of power when built correctly.
It’s worth noting that the Ford 8.8 rear end is commonly found in Ford Mustangs, Ford F-Series trucks, and Ford Rangers, making it a popular choice for various projects. It is also more versatile than the Ford 9-inch, as it is available in both stick axle and independent rear suspension setups.
In summary, while the Ford 8.8 and Ford 9-inch rear ends have similarities, such as their use in Ford vehicles and their strength, they do have differences in terms of design and aftermarket support. The Ford 9-inch is often considered the stronger option, especially for high-power applications, but the Ford 8.8 is a reliable and versatile choice as well .

Why is the Ford 8.8 so popular?

The Ford 8.8 differential is lighter than the Ford 9˝ differential, less expensive to buy used, and with a little modification can be as strong or stronger than a GM 12-bolt differential. The Ford 8.8 is virtually a clone of the Chevy 12-bolt and therefore almost as strong.

What is the difference between Ford 9-inch diffs?

Ford 9-inch diffs feature larger diameter ring gears which creates additional distance between the centerline of the ring gear and the centerline of the pinion gear, known as hypoid distance. This relationship impacts performance. “The key here is hypoid offset,” says Gus, “The vertical offset from the axle centerline.

How do you identify a Ford 9-inch diff?

9 Inch Ford rear differential
To recognize a Locking 9″ differential, look for a metal tag on one of the bolts that holds the center section to the housing. There is a gear ratio stamped on the tag. For example: The tag will say: 350 for 3.50:1 ring and pinion gear ratio.

What Ford has 8.8 rear end?

Ford first used the 8.8 axle in 1983 model year trucks and is still in production for the Ford Ranger and Ford F-Series. It was also used in the Ford SUVs until Independent suspension replaced the solid axle.

What size bolt pattern does Ford use?

1997-2003 Ford F-150 Lug Pattern: 5×5.31” (5×135mm) 2004-2008 Ford F-150 Lug Pattern: 6×5.31″ (6×135mm) 2009-2014 Ford F-150 Lug Pattern: 6×5.31″ (6×135mm) 2015-2020 Ford F-150 Lug Pattern: 6×5.31″ (6×135mm)

Why is the Ford 9 inch so strong?

The Ford nine-inch, introduced in 1957, incorporated all that smart thinking but had distinct advantages. First, there’s the diameter of its ring gear at—you guessed it—nine inches. That’s larger and thus stronger than most contemporaries. Ford engineers increased the angle of the pinion’s teeth, as well.

How can you tell a Ford 8 inch from a 9 inch?

Case on the back of an 8 inch. Is rounded there is nothing indented on except you have two dimples on either side of the case. Here.

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.

What is a Ford 8.8 bolt pattern?

5 x 4.5 Lug Pattern.

How do you identify a Ford 9-inch rear end?

Most 9″ rear differentials will be the open type. To recognize a locking or limited slip 9″ differential, look for a metal tag on one of the bolts that holds the center section to the housing. There is a gear ratio stamped on the tag. For example: The tag will say: 350 for 3.50:1 ring and pinion gear ratio.